A vending machine usually gives you something to take home. But what if your next purchase could help put food on someone's table, provide shelter, or support a family in need?
That's the idea behind the Light the World Giving Machines, which are returning to Northern Nevada for a third year. The customized red vending machines will be set up inside Scheels at The Legends in Sparks from Nov. 14 through Dec. 7.
The machines allow people to choose and purchase tangible items for people in need, with donations ranging from $10 to $100. Options include food, shelter, and hygiene supplies, as well as items such as a milk goat.
A community kickoff event is planned for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Scheels, which is located at 1200 Scheels Drive in Sparks.
The event will include live music from the Sierra Heights Harmony youth choir, remarks from organizers and community leaders, and a ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the machines.
Several Northern Nevada nonprofits will benefit from the donations, including Tiny Toes Foundation, Eddy House, Soulful Seeds, Ronald McDonald House Northern Nevada, and the Food Bank of Northern Nevada.
International organizations CARE USA, UNICEF and Clubfoot Solutions will also receive support.
The machines are sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which covers all operating costs. Organizers say that means 100% of donations go directly to the participating charities.
People can make donations by selecting an item on the machine's screen and paying with a card or mobile app.
There's also an option called the "777 Challenge," which allows someone to purchase one of every item available in a machine in a single transaction. Individuals, families, businesses, clubs, and teams can participate or pool their contributions.
The Giving Machines will be available during regular Scheels business hours through Dec. 7.
More information is available at the Light the World Giving Machines website
