New Light the World Giving Machine data shows that when Americans give Christmas gifts to complete strangers, they choose food, education, and dignity

When Americans shop for Christmas gifts, they’re usually buying for loved ones.

The annual Light the World Giving Machine initiative, made possible by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, helps people focus on a different kind of Christmas generosity: gifts chosen for people the giver may never know.

New data offers a look at the kinds of needs Americans respond to through these unique vending machines during the holidays.

This Christmas season, more than 150,000 individual donations in the U.S. alone have been made through Giving Machine kiosks, each representing a gift chosen for someone the giver may never meet but will always share a connection with.

“This is Christmas generosity in its purest form,” said Karl Cheney, Global Manager, Light the World Giving Machine Initiative. “People are giving gifts meant to help someone live a better life, not just feel good for a moment.”

What Americans Are Giving for Christmas

When presented with specific gift options, the data shows people gravitate toward essential items that help people including:

• Food is the top category, including meals for children, groceries for families, and food for seniors.
• Livestock, such as chickens and goats, which help families generate income.
• Education, including books, tuition support, and school supplies.
• Personal hygiene, including menstrual kits and hygiene packs.
• Clothing, from warm coats to shoes and bedding.

Together, these choices point to gifts designed to provide support that extends beyond the holiday season.

Who Americans Are Thinking About

The data also reveals who donors have in mind when giving Christmas gifts to strangers:

• Children in need are the most supported group, followed by
• People experiencing homelessness,
• Low-income individuals and families.

“These aren’t abstract causes,” Cheney said. “They’re people — and at Christmas, people tend to think about children, families, and those who might otherwise be overlooked. The global Giving Machine initiative makes loving our neighbors not only possible, but meaningful and memorable in ways never before experienced.”

Christmas Giving, Made Tangible

The Giving Machine — often described as a “vending machine in reverse” — allows donors to purchase specific items, not for themselves, but for someone in need, whether around the block or across the world. Every item is delivered through vetted nonprofit partners, with 100 percent of each donation going directly to charities. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which sponsors the machines, covers all operating costs.

In total, the initiative partners with nearly 500 local nonprofit organizations across the U.S., along with 12 global nonprofits, ensuring gifts support both local communities and broader humanitarian needs.

Launched in 2017 as part of the Church’s Light the World Christmas initiative, more than $50 million has been contributed through the Giving Machine initiative, providing millions of people worldwide with essential items and services.

As Christmas approaches, the data tells a simple story: when Americans give Christmas gifts to people they’ll never meet, they choose the things that matter most.

To learn more or find a Giving Machine near you, visit GivingMachine.org.

High-res assets HERE and: https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/light-the-world-2025

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a global faith centered on Jesus Christ and His teachings. With more than 17 million members worldwide, the Church seeks to follow the Savior’s example by strengthening individuals, families, and communities through worship and service.

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