Nov 9, 2026 - Things to Do
Giving Machines return to Arizona for the holidays
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A Giving Machine is unwrapped in Salt Lake City in 2022. Photo: Courtesy of Giving Machine Initiative
The vending machines that dispense kindness instead of snacks are back.
Driving the news: The bright red Giving Machines are returning soon for the holidays, giving Mesa residents a chance to help people in need with the push of a button.
How it works: You can give meals, clothing, school supplies or even livestock to families locally and around the world.
- You can donate any amount — ranging from $5 to $150 — by card to a charity of your choosing.
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sponsors the machines and covers their operating costs, so 100% of your donation goes to the charity.
If you go: The first Arizona-based Giving Machine opens Nov. 13 at Pecan Lake Entertainment in Queen Creek.
- Nov. 16: The Water Tower Plaza in Gilbert
- Dec. 10: Desert Ridge Marketplace in north Phoenix
- Other machines will open through December, including in Tucson, Prescott and Flagstaff.