Idaho Light the World Giving Machines Raise More Than $1.3 Million

Published on March 14, 2025

Earlier this week, Mayor Wagoner and hundreds of others gathered at the State Capitol to celebrate the incredible generosity of Idahoans, as five local charities were presented with significant checks from the Light the World Giving Machines campaign. The Giving Machines were on the Indian Creek Plaza, December 3-13th. This innovative initiative allowed people to donate directly to local and international causes through special vending machines that offered a variety of charitable items, from diapers and strollers to a night of safety at a local shelter, or even a live goat or beehive.

In total, seven charities benefited from the Giving Machines campaign. While two international organizations were supported, five local charities received substantial contributions.

• Boise Rescue Mission: $157,920
  
  
• Women’s & Children’s Alliance: $151,555
  
  
• Idaho Youth Ranch: $140,915
  
  
• Glocal (Refugee Resettlement): $126,695
  
  
• Genesis Community Health: $113,870

The Light the World Giving Machines campaign also saw support from children, teens, and families across the valley. Local youth held bake sales, and teens worked odd jobs to raise funds for the campaign. Throughout the holiday season (November 22 through December 31), the Giving Machines saw nearly 11,000 unique transactions. The machines were initially set up in Boise at the Grove Plaza, moved to Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell, and wrapped up the campaign at The Village in Meridian.

Here are a few highlights from the campaign, showing the wide-reaching impact of the donations: 1,027 packs of diapers donated; 275 garden plots sponsored for refugees; 213 strollers donated; 460 equine therapy sessions funded; 676 nights of safe shelter provided.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sponsored the campaign with 100% of all donations going directly to the charities.