OKLAHOMA CITY –
The giving machines, a holiday tradition built around generosity, will return to Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City from Dec. 11 through Jan. 1, benefiting five local nonprofits.
When these big red vending machines arrive, they won’t be stocked with candy or soda but with cards representing real needs in the community.
Oklahomans can purchase items ranging from $10 to $150, such as a holiday meal for a family, a week of transportation for a survivor of domestic violence, or a day at camp for a child facing a serious illness.
“I don’t think we can even understand the impact,” said Suzy Sultemeier, an organizer of the OKC giving machines.
This year marks the third time the giving machines will be in Oklahoma City, benefiting The Spero Project, Sunbeam Family Services, The Salvation Army, Children’s Health Foundation and Palomar.
“When they flee a domestic violent home, they usually take nothing but the clothes on their backs, and so this will give them a fresh start,” said Kim Garrett-Funk, chief visionary officer of Palomar.
The Spero Project plans to use its donations to help resettled refugees build new lives in Oklahoma.
“We have our sewing machine kits. We have snacks because you can’t learn without snacks, school supplies, as well as English learning classes,” said Skyler Taylor, director of partnerships at The Spero Project.
The giving machines are part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Light the World campaign. Last year, Oklahomans purchased more than 10,000 items through the machines.
The machines will also support global organizations, including Days for Girls and Church World Services.
