Vending Machines Replaced with ‘Giving Machines’ in Denver
Giving Machines are set up in downtown Denver for a limited time and give customers the ability to purchase items for a charity in need of donations rather than for themselves. The vending machine-like devices give shoppers the choice of items they would like to give.
“There’s things all the way from just a few dollars to, to a goat for $75 and chickens for $25,” Fred Lewis, a volunteer with the machines, told The Denver Channel. “It’s so easy to be able to help someone else.
The vending machines are set up at Writer Square, along the 16th Street Mall between Lawrence and Larimer. Volunteers will be on-site to help from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Shoppers can pay with credit card or mobile pay — no cash payment options — items range from $5 to $300. The machines will be open 24/7 through New Year’s Day 2022.
The Giving Machines are sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints. Organizers hope to bring together different organizations and faiths to build a positive impact during this holiday season. The four organizations working with the Giving Machines this year are the Crowley Foundation, Jewish Family Services, Project Worthmore and The Denver Rescue Mission.
“When they put that money into the giving machine, it’s going directly to the Denver Rescue Mission for that item that they purchased,” said Nicole Tschetter, the public relations manager for the homeless outreach organization. “Those people can have a peace of mind knowing that their dollar is going exactly to that coat or to that meal.”
Last year, the machines raised over $650,000. This year, the goal is $1 million.
“It only takes, you know, a few dollars, and you can make a difference,” said Duane Smith, who oversees the Giving Machines in Denver. “It’s been just a tremendous experience to bring these organizations together and provide a wonderful opportunity for families to come down here.”
Image source: Giving Machines Denver
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