For the third year, the Light the World Giving Machines are back in Northern Nevada, this time stationed inside Scheels at The Legends in Sparks. From November 14 through December 7, shoppers can use the bright red vending‑style kiosks to purchase tangible items for people in need, with donation amounts ranging from $10 to $100.
How the machines work
Each machine presents a menu of specific needs—food, shelter, hygiene supplies, and even a milk goat. Donors select an item on the touchscreen and pay with a credit card or mobile app. An optional “777 Challenge” lets a participant purchase every item available in a single transaction, a popular option for families, churches, clubs and businesses that want to pool their contributions.
Community kickoff
The launch event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Scheels, located at 1200 Scheels Drive. The ceremony will feature live music from the Sierra Heights Harmony youth choir, remarks from organizers and community leaders, and a ribbon‑cutting to unveil the machines.
Charities that will benefit
Donations collected by the machines will be distributed to several Northern Nevada nonprofits, including the Tiny Toes Foundation, Eddy House, Soulful Seeds, Ronald McDonald House Northern Nevada, and the Food Bank of Northern Nevada. International partners such as CARE USA, UNICEF and Clubfoot Solutions will also receive support.
Sponsorship and impact
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints is covering all operating costs for the machines, ensuring that 100 % of the money donated goes directly to the participating charities. Organizers emphasize that this model maximizes the impact of each contribution, turning a simple purchase into a tangible aid for families facing hardship during the holiday season.
Getting involved
Anyone can make a donation at the Scheels location during regular store hours through Dec. 7. The machines accept both card and mobile payments, making it easy for shoppers to give while they shop. For more details, visit the Light the World Giving Machines website.
By combining everyday shopping with charitable giving, the Giving Machines initiative offers a practical way for the Sparks community to support neighbors in need, reinforcing the spirit of generosity that defines the holiday season.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
