DALLAS — A lot of people, especially this time of year, are hungry for hope. And when someone is hungry, there’s no better place to go than a vending machine.
However, a heaping helping of hope can’t be found at just any vending machine, but at The Giving Machine.
“The Giving Machine is a fabulous box of joy,” said Melissa McKneely, a spokesperson for The Giving Machine.
The Giving Machine is in North Texas — first in Grapevine before going to Frisco and McKinney —thanks to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its Light the World Campaign.
Like any vending machine, patrons make a selection, make a payment, and then an item is dispensed. However, instead of going home with the customer who paid, every item purchased goes to someone in need.
“It allows us to focus on the life of Jesus Christ and give to others as he did,” said Chris Klemann, president of the Colleyville stake.
Klemann says every penny is given away to one of five local or two global charities.
Catholic Charities Dallas is one of those local charities and even something as small as a $6 bus pass can have a profound impact.
“We know that transportation can be a barrier for people getting to work, doctor’s appointments and so having that in the machine is just incredible,” said Kelly Noonan, chief development officer for Catholic Charities.
Each of the three Giving Machines contains 30 items, such as a warm place to sleep, school supplies, and food.
“You can give a goat,” McKneely said, referencing the goat that will be given to help a refugee family have food security.
To be the gift GOAT, patrons can even give one of everything by inputting “777.” When someone puts money in they get something greater out.
“What you’re really doing is you’re walking away with a wonderful feeling in your heart that you’ve made a difference,” Klemann said.
“The world needs each other,” said McKneely. “People need each other. We need to take care of each other.”
Most vending machines have candy, drinks, and chips, but only one can satisfy the soul.
To track the Texas Giving Machine or for more information, go here.