Vending machine "with heart" sets up in San Antonio

Giving to local nonprofit organizations can be as easy as picking out a vending machine snack.

What's happening: The Texas Giving Machine will officially launch at 12:30pm Tuesday at Pearl, where it will be available until Dec. 3.

• It's part of the Light the World initiative, which is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

How it works: Instead of snacks, the vending machine is stocked with cards representing items needed by participating nonprofits, such as groceries, meals, clothing and more.

• Once a donor selects the items and inputs their payment, which can range from $5 to $200, a card with a photo of the donation drops into the collection bin.
• Donors will be able to give to San Antonio Food Bank, PAWS for Service, Catholic Charities, Interfaith Welcome Coalition and the Center for Refugee Services.
• The church covers all operational costs of the vending machines. 100% of the donations benefit the groups.

What they're saying: Pearl calls it a "vending machine with heart."