A Unique Way to Help the World This Season

By Linda McMillian

NORTH GEORGIA —For the first time in history, North Georgia is a chosen location for the "Mobile Giving Machine", a novel technological innovation for charitable donations. The Machine will be at the Interlock in Atlanta just in time for the holidays (December 6-11).

According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sponsor of the event, the machines are essentially vending machines for charity. With a credit card, individuals will be able to choose from a variety of options such as meals, clothing, shoes, blankets, beds and popular livestock choices such as chickens, goats, pigs and beehives. Items ranging from $5 to over $100 are available for donation choices.

The family oriented event can help children understand the importance of sharing during the holiday season by encouraging a giving list as well as a wish list.

The Church itself pays all operating costs so 100% of every donation goes directly to the Charities and is used to provide the intended goods to those in need regardless of race, nationality, or religious affiliation. Since the first Giving Machine in 2017 hundreds of thousands of people have visited the machines all over the world and contributed over $15 million.

Two local nonprofits are featured this year as well as multiple international charities. Wellspring Living (assisting victims of human trafficking) and the Children's Haven (supporting foster care families and children) will be helped here in the Atlanta area. International beneficiaries include UNICEF, Church World Service, WaterAid, Water For People and International Medical Corps.

If you don't have time to visit the Mobile Giving Machine this year, there is an online option that will allow you to have a chance via the Internet and make your choices there: Online Mobile Giving Machine Experience.

The Atlanta event will be unique with daily presentations and performances: Atlanta Mobile Giving Schedule of Events

HOURS:

Tues-Thurs (Dec 6-8) 10:30am – 9:00pm
Fri-Sun (Dec 9-11) 10:30am – 10:00pm
WHERE:
The Interlock
1115 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318

The Mobile Giving Machine will be parked on Beeline Blvd across from the large Interlock mural. Enter Beeline Blvd from Howell Mill Road only. The other end of Beeline Blvd from Interlock Ave will be closed each evening starting at 4 p.m.

Parking available at The Interlock parking deck and uses ParkMobile app. Valet parking is also available.