The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Light the World Giving Machines received over 490,000 donations between November and December 2024, helping people and communities from all around the globe.
Since the first Giving Machine launched in 2017, the initiative has raised nearly $50 million worldwide. These machines have helped millions of individuals and families, and their impact continues to grow.
The Church said in a news release that the 2024 Light the World campaign was its biggest yet. The Giving Machines drew more than 850,000 visitors from 107 cities across 13 countries.
Giving Machines returned to the United Kingdom after five years and made their debut in Hong Kong, Kenya, Nairobi and even the North Pole. Machines were placed in more locations in 2024 than ever before.
More than 490,000 items were donated, with around 450 nonprofits involved — more than all previous years combined.
The Church shared highlights from the 2024 Giving Machines, showing how donations are making a difference for people in need around the world.
The Church highlighted that, because of these machines:
2 million meals will feed the hungry.
106,000 chickens, goats and beehives will provide food and jobs for thousands of families and villagers.
10,200 individuals and families will receive groceries and produce for a month.
14,000 hygiene kits will be distributed to refugees, young girls and others.
500,000 children will be vaccinated against polio and measles.
125,000 refugees will receive emergency food boxes.
43,000 children and adults will further their education and job skills with books, school supplies, financial assistance, scholarships, tutoring and more.
48,000 children and adults will receive essentials such as a warm jacket, shoes and socks, clothing for job interviews and school uniforms.
Regardless of the numbers, Sister Amy A. Wright of the Primary General Presidency highlighted that the purpose of these machines is the people they are helping.
“We talk so much about the number and the monetary amount of donations, but it is impossible to calculate the people because it's about people,” Sister Wright said.
Donors chose what to give and where to donate their money, with options including clean water, meals, toys, goats, education, shelter and more.
Donations given through the Giving Machines go directly to charities with the Church covering all operational costs, ensuring that 100% of every donation reaches those in need.
“The annual Light the World Giving Machine initiative is a living miracle,” Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve said. “This is such a beautiful and poignant way for the world to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and follow His example of love and service.”
President Camille N. Johnson, the Relief Society General President, said that the opportunity to contribute to the well-being and the care of others is gratifying.
“It makes us feel like we're all brothers and sisters of our loving Heavenly Father,” President Johnson said.
The Church said that every donation creates a lasting sense of connection even if the donor never meets the person they are blessing.
“I don't know a way of being able to create a greater measure of hope than celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ,” Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve said.
The Giving Machines will return later in 2025 to help even more individuals and communities.