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Denver's 'Donation Vending Machines' Are Back for the Holiday Season

Posted on December 3, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Peyton Garcia

Peyton Garcia

people check out the giving machines at cherry creek north

This year’s Light the World Giving Machines are located in Cherry Creek North. (Giving Machines Denver)

Every year, Coloradans come together to uplift the community and causes they care about on Colorado Gives Day. Since 2010, donors have raised more than $469 million for over 4,000 nonprofit organizations in the name of the tradition. So in the spirit of localism, I’m recommending everyone check out the Denver Giving Machines.

What Are They?

Basically, donation vending machines! The idea behind them was to create a way to make donating to your community as quick and easy as buying a snack from a vending machine.

How Does It Work?

All you have to do is browse the donation options — which are displayed on cards and range from bags of groceries, warm clothes, and hygiene products to job certification courses and bus passes — make your selection, and swipe a credit card. Donation amounts vary from $5 to $250.

Where and When Can I Go?

This year, the Giving Machines are located in Cherry Creek North at the entrance to the holiday market at Second Avenue and Fillmore Street. They’re open 24/7 now through January 5!

More Donation Deets:

The Giving Machine donations will benefit five local charities. A full 100% of your donation goes directly to the charities. Machine costs are covered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Donations are also eligible for tax deductions and employer matching programs.

Psst! Need more ideas? We recently rounded up an extensive list of local organizations supporting vulnerable communities in the Denver metro. Check out how to get involved!

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