Moapa Valley Progress
Imagine going to a vending machine and being able to purchase, instead of sodas or snacks, school supplies, a dental procedure, or a pair of eyeglasses for a needy Las Vegas student. Or maybe food for a local family in need, materials to assist a southern Nevada adult with intellectual disabilities, a portable “school-in-a-box”, or even a sheep for a family in a developing country. All of these options and many more are available to Las Vegas residents this year during the holiday season.
As part of the annual #LightTheWorld campaign, shoppers and guests at Downtown Summerlin can provide an instant act of service by donating at special vending machines called Giving Machines. With a simple card swipe, individuals can purchase items for people in need both in the Las Vegas area and around the world.
The only-in-Vegas location had its kickoff last Thursday, Nov. 14 with a formal announcement from select #LightTheWorld executives, local dignitaries, Donny Osmond, Sharon Eubank, participating charities and Downtown Summerlin executive staff.
Charities participating in the Las Vegas Giving Machines include Three Square, EyeCare4Kids, Communities In Schools of Nevada, Future Smiles, Opportunity Village, UNICEF, Church World Services Global.
Items range in price from $2 to $320 and include staple items such as laundry pods, backpack and school supplies, exam fees, eyeglasses, cataract surgery, dental exams, group community outings, fresh produce, meals, Polio vaccines, chickens, etc. Only credit and debit cards are accepted. No cash donations.
The Giving Machines will be available at Downtown Summerlin in the Macy’s plaza until January 2, 2020. There are four Giving Machines that are available at that location.
The #LightTheWorld Giving Machines started in 2017. In two years, the machines have raised more than $2.8 million in donations from five global locations. This year’s campaign will include 10 global locations. The Downtown Summerlin location will serve as the only Las Vegas outpost.
Each Tuesday following the launch, participating organizations will have an opportunity to create a customized event around the Giving Machines in hopes to raise additional funds and awareness of this cause.
For a complete list of each Giving Tuesday and additional details on how you can support, please visit www.summerlin.com.