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Light the World Giving Machine kiosks were introduced in Los Angeles during the annual tree lighting event at The Grove, a well-known shopping and entertainment location in the city’s Fairfax District. The kiosks, placed in the lobby of AMC Theaters, are part of an initiative sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The machines allow users to make donations to local and international charities. This year, local organizations featured in the kiosks are focused on helping communities recover from severe wildfires that occurred near Los Angeles last January. These fires left thousands homeless and caused significant damage to neighborhoods such as Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu. Donations made through the Giving Machines will support efforts to rebuild small businesses, parks, and recreation centers affected by these events.
During the 24th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration on November 17, Los Angeles Firefighters were recognized as the Giving Machine kiosks were unveiled. Fire Chief Jaime E. Moore commented on learning that all proceeds go directly to affected communities: “That’s incredible, what a way to give back.” He also thanked those involved for supporting recovery efforts in Palisades and spoke about rebuilding safer homes: “This is an opportunity to take a horrible situation and make the best out of it and build homes that are more resilient, safer for a community that can reside with those beautiful views, with the hills still behind them, and knowing that their homes are going to be much safer.”
The Church covers all overhead costs associated with operating the Giving Machines so that 100% of donations benefit nonprofit organizations.
President Jeffrey R. Holland of The Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles visited Southern California earlier this year to minister to members who survived the fires. Volunteers from The Church have also participated in fire recovery work throughout Southern California.
Los Angeles is among 126 cities worldwide launching Giving Machine kiosks during this Christmas season.
