Lighting the World Together: Catholic Charities and Latter-Day Saints Launch Giving Machines Campaign.

In the heart of New York City, where the bustling streets of commerce, tourism, and entertainment intersect, a unique and heartwarming initiative takes center stage during the holiday season. The 2023 Light the World Giving Machines campaign, launched by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) in collaboration with various charitable organizations, embodies the spirit of giving and hope. Among the esteemed partners, Catholic Charities New York stands tall as the oldest New York partner, continuing their ecumenical partnership with the LDS. For the past five years, this meaningful collaboration has showcased the power of people coming together to brighten lives with the Giving Machines.

The Global Launch in Times Square:

The campaign commenced in Times Square on the eve of Giving Tuesday, symbolizing hope for a brighter world. Elder David L. Buckner, an Area Seventy in New York City, expressed the campaign’s purpose as a symbol of hope for “greater light in the world.” The Giving Machines, now in their seventh season, make charitable giving as easy as purchasing a soda or a candy bar. This season, 61 red Giving Machines are spread across 41 cities worldwide, offering a diverse range of items for charitable donation. The only Giving Machine in New York State is located right here in New York City outside the Church of Our Saviour on 38^th Street and Park Avenue.

Giving Machine located at 38th Street and park Ave, outside the Church of Our Saviour, NYC — The New York Giving Machine is located at 38th Street and Park Ave, outside the Church of Our Saviour, NYC. Photo: Catholic Charities NY

Ecumenical Partnership: A Tradition of Giving:

Catholic Charities New York proudly joins the ranks of 10 charitable organizations partnering with LDS in this global initiative. The collaboration extends beyond the Giving Machines, exemplifying a wonderful relationship where both organizations work together on various projects. Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of New York and Pastor of Our Saviour Parish, highlighted the significance of linking arms with the LDS, describing the hosting of the machines as another powerful way to collaborate.

Monsignor Sullivan’s Reflection:

As the Giving Machines were unveiled in Times Square, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan shared a poignant reflection on the significance of this collaboration. He stated, “We’re here in Times Square, the brightest place in the world, arguably in the midst of a world that is very dull. Catholic Charities is here with the Light the World Giving Machines, working with The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints in order to do our part to light the darkness of our world with the light of goodness of help and hope.” This sentiment encapsulates the mission behind the partnership — to bring light to the darkest corners of the world through acts of goodness, assistance, and hope.

We Are Called to Give:

Embracing the joy of giving and making a positive impact, the Light the World Giving Machine at Our Saviour Parish presents a delightful selection of items for your easy contribution. Here’s a family-friendly way that you add your ‘light the darkness of our world with the light of goodness of help and hope.’

$5: Spark creativity by gifting a Coloring Book to a child.

$7: Extend a helping hand with a Hygiene Kit for a homeless person or Art Supplies that bring creative joy to a child in our afterschool programs.

$15: Shoot some hoops of positivity by purchasing a Basketball for a teen in our youth programs, keeping them safe and engaged.

$20: Foster education with essential School Supplies.

$30: Provide practical support with a Backpack or contribute to connectivity with a One-Month Prepaid Cell Phone for an immigrant.

$40: Help a mother feed her infant with Baby Formula.

$70: Shield your neighbor from the winter chill with a Weatherproof Jacket.

$75: Support struggling families with a Month’s Supply of Diapers or provide nourishment with Four Meals for a Homeless Family.

$100: Strike a chord of inspiration with Music Lessons for a teen in our afterschool programs.

$150: Create a cozy haven for a newborn with a Baby Crib and Blanket.

$200: Illuminate the path to success with tutoring for a struggling student.

Each contribution, no matter how big or small, adds a touch of warmth and brightness to someone’s life. Join us in making this holiday season truly special for those in need. Don’t worry if you can’t stop by. Online donations are just as easy.

The Giving Machines’ Impact:

Giving Machine Purchase Catholic Charities New York — A passerby making a donation selection at the Giving Machine. Photo courtesy: Latter-day Saints

The Giving Machines offer a unique and accessible way for individuals and families to engage in charitable giving during the holiday season. All transactions benefit vetted local and global charities, with the LDS covering all operational costs to ensure that 100% of every donation goes to the giver’s chosen cause. Since 2017, the Giving Machines worldwide have generated an impressive $22 million in donations, impacting millions of lives. The New York City Giving Machine, situated at the Church of Our Saviour on Park Avenue and 38th Street, invites locals and tourists alike to participate in spreading light and hope.

The ecumenical partnership between Catholic Charities and the LDS exemplifies the power of collaboration in bringing light and hope to the world. By participating in this heartwarming initiative, individuals can contribute to the global effort of positively impacting the lives of those less fortunate, embodying the true spirit of the holiday season.