'Giving Machine' at Altamonte Mall provides unique way to bring holiday cheer this season

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. - Ever heard of the Giving Machine? Three of them are set up near the food court at the Altamonte Mall this holiday season. When you put money in this vending machine, it gives other people hope.

Grayson Condie, 9, says he wants to give children in need a good night's sleep.

"Probably the bedding set, I would guess," Grayson said. "Because children need comfort when they sleep!"

"We're excited to finally have the Giving Machine in our area," said Arantza Condie, Grayson's mother. "It's such a great opportunity to be able to teach our children about charity and service."

The machines are a project of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, which has placed them around the world this time of year. The church works with national and local charities to stock the machine virtually with goods and services. People who want to donate can walk up to the machines, choose an item, and donate the money.

The machines have different things you can donate, based on your budget. For example, $8 will give toys to homeless children, $55 will give meals to seniors, and $85 will buy a student a laptop.

All of the money goes to the charities. Local nonprofits say it's a great way to donate.

"You know, normally nonprofits, the only way to give back is fundraising events or online," said Eric Camarillo of SALT Outreach. "Here's a way during the holidays to give back as a family, go in-person, and do it through vending, which is super cool and innovative, yeah."

Local LDS leaders say it's a fun twist on holiday giving.

"The goal was to find a way that's fun, unique, and memorable that allows us to be able to give to people in need," said Jeanne Gunnels of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

The machines are part of the church's "Light the World" initiative that started in 2017. This is the first time they've been set up in Central Florida.