Giving Machine in Idaho Falls to help Light the world!

Light the World Giving Machine Arrives at Grand Teton Mall This Holiday Season
Idaho Falls, Idaho — December 2025/
By Jared Herbert
The Light the World Giving Machine is coming to Idaho Falls for the 2025 holiday season, offering a unique and meaningful way for residents to support local charities. The Giving Machine will be located at Grand Teton Mall from December 15 through January 1, providing community members with the opportunity to “purchase” charitable items such as meals, hygiene kits, emergency supplies, and other necessities for individuals and families in need.
The Giving Machine will open to the public at noon on December 15 and follow regular mall hours throughout its stay:
Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Closed Christmas Day
New Year’s Eve: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

This marks one of the first times Eastern Idaho has hosted a Light the World Giving Machine. Part of a global initiative sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, these bright red kiosks transform the familiar experience of a vending machine into an act of service. Instead of snacks or drinks, donors can select items representing real needs around the world and within their own community.

“The Light the World Giving Machine is a way for all of us, regardless of faith, to come together and bless the lives of others,” said Kirt L. Hodges, Area Seventy for the Church. “This is a season to focus on the Savior, and these machines make it simple and meaningful to share His love through service. We hope this inspires members of the community to follow the Savior’s example.”
Supporting Local Nonprofits
Donations made at the Idaho Falls Giving Machine will benefit several Eastern Idaho organizations, including:
Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership (EICAP)
Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center
Idaho Falls Rescue Mission
The Village
Community Food Basket Idaho Falls
Friends in Service Here (FISH)
All operational and administrative costs of the Giving Machine are covered by the Church, ensuring that 100% of every donation goes directly to the selected charity.

How It Works
Visitors browse a digital catalog of charitable “items” inside the machine.
Items may include meals, coats, hygiene kits, bedding, medical supplies, and more.
Donors select items and pay using a credit or debit card or mobile payment.
The selected charities receive the donated items or equivalent funds to distribute to those in need.
Volunteer hosts will be on-site throughout the season to greet visitors, explain how the machine works, and highlight the impact each donation will have.
A Holiday Tradition Centered on Service
The Light the World campaign is a worldwide effort each Christmas season encouraging individuals to share light through small acts of service. The Giving Machines have become a signature part of that effort, making generosity simple, visual, and meaningful for families, individuals, and groups of all ages.
Residents of Idaho Falls and surrounding communities are invited to visit the Grand Teton Mall during the holidays to take part in this one-of-a-kind giving experience.