2 Indy-area vending machines sell items local, global charities need to help others

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Giving Machines have come to the Indy area, with the latest “grand unwrapping” by two children unveiling the machines at Newfields on Tuesday in conjunction with Winterlights.

Admission to Newfields is not required to make a donation.

The machines allow people to provide a act of kindness and service to help people in their communities and across the globe.

At the machines, donation items range from $3 to $300, and include clean water, food and livestock, meals, toys, health and wellness, education, housing and shelter, clothing, refugee aid, and volunteer hours. Every donation goes directly to global and local charities to help those in need.

Since The Giving Machine organization started six years ago, 1.5 million people have donated $21 million dollars worth of goods and services changing many lives.

There are 61 machines located worldwide. This is the first year Giving Machines have made an appearance in the Indy area.

Local Indiana charities helped by The Giving Machine include Gleaners Food Bank, Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis, Flanner House, American Red Cross, Lifting Hands, Mentors International, and iDE Global.

The other machine is located at Clay Terrace mall in Carmel. The big red vending machine sits in front of the Jos A. Bank men’s clothing store.

Both machines will be available through Jan. 7.

Learn more about The Giving Machines in Indy here.