The spirit of generosity has illuminated the Great Lakes Bay region, as the 2024 Giving Machines campaign concluded with resounding success, exceeding expectations and showing our community's unwavering commitment to helping those in need.
This year, Light The World Giving Machines came to Michigan for the first time since their inception in 2017. Located at The Midland Mall, they became a beacon of hope, attracting over 2,500 individuals eager to make a tangible difference. Through the simple act of purchasing essential items – from meals and medical supplies to educational resources and livestock – participants directly supported local and global charities, spreading joy and alleviating suffering.
"We are absolutely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and generosity from our community," said Jessica Larsen, Regional Giving Machine Coordinator. "The Great Lakes Bay region has truly shown the world what it means to come together and lift others. This year's results are a testament to the power of collective compassion."
Key Highlights of the 2024 Campaign:
- Record-Breaking Donations: More than $43,000 was contributed this past season through the Great Lakes Bay Giving Machines, and more than $14 million was donated worldwide in 107 cities and 13 countries.
- Thousands Impacted: The funds raised will directly benefit thosands of individuals and families through local charities, including Hidden Harvest, Great Lakes Bay Health Centers, Lead, Partner Shift Network, and the RL Jones Community Center. Checks will be presented later this month to each of the non-profits and they will have one year to deliver the items chosen in the machines to those they serve.
- Community Unity: The campaign fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds including hundreds of volunteers and over 550 hours of service at the busiest time of year.
- Tangible Impact: Donor purchases included 2300 family meals, 1800 diapers, 44 safe births for moms, and 18 months of utilities paid for families in need.
"Every item purchased through the Giving Machines represents a story of hope. "We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, from the volunteers who made the machines possible to the donors who opened their hearts. Our faith teaches us to do good, and partnering with community organizations helps all of us do the most good we can. We look forward to telling the impact stories as we see the miracles unfold this year.”, John Lowry, regional leader for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “We will continue to work with our new community partners, and look forward to building new bridges in the community.”
The success of the 2024 Giving Machines campaign in the Great Lakes Bay region serves as a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. The ripple effect of these donations will continue to benefit those in need for years to come.
About the Giving Machines:
The Giving Machines are a unique and innovative charitable initiative that allows individuals to purchase essential items for those in need through vending machine-like kiosks. Since 2017, nearly $50 million has been donated through Light the World Giving Machines. The initiative is sponsored and fully funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, making it possible to give 100% of every donation to the charity of choice.