Children pose the camera after donating to families in need through the Light the World Mobile Giving Machine in Atlanta, Georgia, on Tuesday, December 6, 2022. (Photo: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
SALT LAKE CITY — Millions of people worldwide will be fed, clothed and cared for this coming year because of the selfless donations made at Light the World Giving Machines during the 2022 Christmas season.
From November through December, an estimated 425,000 individuals in 28 cities and across six countries made a donation to the Giving Machines, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 2022, the machines were in more cities than ever.
Church officials reported Tuesday, based on the donations, more than 3.2 million healthy meals, and 13,000 boxes of fresh produce, will feed the hungry.
Nearly 32,000 children will receive school supplies and class instruction, including 2,900 scholarships for tuition and housing.
More than 516,000 children will be vaccinated against polio and measles.
More than 38,000 chickens, 25,000 ducks and 3,700 beehives will provide families with long-term nutrition and income potential.
Reflecting on those receiving assistance, Sharon Eubank, director of Humanitarian Services for the Church, said, “Not a single person could be cared for without each Giving Machine participant. Their loving and unselfish gifts are miraculous. As a Church, we are blessed to sponsor this inspired initiative and extend our sincere gratitude to all who make it happen. I cannot think of a greater gift we could offer others than to feed, clothe, educate, and shelter our brothers and sisters in need. It is what our Savior Jesus Christ did and what He asks us to do.”
Since 2017, Giving Machines have collected more than $22 million. In 2022, 125 local and global nonprofit organizations participated and will use donated funds to fulfill every donor’s purchased item. In addition, as part of their ongoing humanitarian efforts, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all Light the World Giving Machine operational costs, allowing 100% of every donation to bless the life of someone in need.
Preparations are underway for the 2023 season, with locations and dates announced later.