This Christmas we decided we would take the opportunity to meet with our grandchildren and talk about caring for our neighbor and the opportunity to give at Christmas. What better opportunity then to meet at a Giving Machine kiosk?

First, a little background on the Giving Machine available for public use in multiple locations:

“Light the World” Giving Machine kiosks are in more cities around the world than ever before for the 2025 Christmas season.

“Across 126 cities in 21 countries and on six continents, the machines are part of the Light the World annual Christmas initiative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“The customized red vending machines allow people to choose something to give to someone else in need — in their own neighborhood or around the world — through local and international nonprofit organizations.

“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operating costs of the kiosks, making sure that 100% of each donation goes directly to the participating nonprofit organizations.

“This year, roughly 3,500 items will be available worldwide from over 600 nonprofit organizations, including 12 global participants:

American Red Cross

Care

Church World Service

Days for Girls International

Lifting Hands International

Mentors International

Right To Play

Special Olympics

Splash

USA for UNHCR

UNICEF

Water for Good

(Church News, 11 Dec. 2025.)

Now, back to our Christmas moment with the grandchildren. We arranged to meet them and their parents at a Utah location for the Giving Machine.

First, we took the opportunity to talk about giving at Christmas and then reviewed the selection of opportunities to help, allowing the grandchild to make the decision.

After thoughtfully reviewing the selection our grandchildren chose  chickens, socks, school baskets and hygiene products.

My wife chose school entrance exams, while I went with help for eye/cataract surgery.

It was a great Christmas moment to share the Savior’s teachings.

Matthew 25:37–40

37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Merry Christmas everyone!

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