Bostonians heading to the Natick Mall this busy holiday season might notice something unusual next to the holiday décor: a vending machine where you don’t buy snacks—you buy hope.
The Light the World Giving Machines, part of a global charitable initiative, return to Massachusetts from December 12 through January 2. The machines let shoppers make quick, meaningful donations to local and international charities with just a few taps. Instead of dispensing chips or candy, the machine issues a card showing what your donation makes possible—like a warm meal, medical supplies, or school tuition.
Since their debut in 2017, Giving Machines raised more than $50 million worldwide. This year’s Boston-area installation benefits eight nonprofit partners, including The Greater Boston Food Bank, Partners for Youth with Disabilities, Circle of Hope, the International Institute of New England, Transformational Prison Project, CARE, and USA for UNHCR.
Organizers say it’s a simple way to do good during a busy season—a moment to slow down, give intentionally, and see generosity in action. The launch event, dubbed “The Great Unwrapping,” takes place this weekend on Saturday, December 13 at 1 PM, marking the official start of the donation drive.
Find it at:
Natick Mall: 1245 Worcester St., Natick, MA
December 12, 2025 – January 2, 2026