Christmas is a festive season and the best time to give back to the community. It is the most opportune time to provide for those who are in need. This is the reason why the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has partnered with Cebu Caritas, Mabuhay Deseret Foundation, and Feed the Children to bring the Light the World Giving Machines to Cebu.
The Light the World initiative started five years ago and continues to spread throughout the world. With 28 locations all over the world, including the US, Mexico, Australia, and now the Philippines, these Giving Machines were first launched in the country at the Festival Mall Alabang on November 17, 2022. The initiative was able to raise over $5.8 million in 10 different locations all over the world. And even with the restrictions caused by the pandemic, the initiative made over one million pesos in Manila. And Cebu is its first destination outside of Metro Manila.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in partnership with Mabuhay Deseret Foundation and Feed the Children presents Light the World. Light the World Giving Machines are two vending machines that offer a unique way of giving back to the Filipino community. | Location of the Giving Machine
The Light the World initiative celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ this Christmas season. At the same time, it is asking people to follow Jesus’ example by giving and caring for each other through donations. Christmas is the perfect season for us to provide for our families and our struggling neighbors. During this gift-giving season, it is also easier for us to reach out to those who are in need through the use of Light the World Giving Machines.
The Light The World Cebu event was held at the Ayala Center Cebu on November 25, 2022 and it was graced by government officials and private sector representatives. Among those present at the momentous event were Cebu City Councilors Joel Garganera and Nestor Archival together with Ayala Mall Management. Leaders from different participating organizations also came and gave their messages of hope and love.
Check out the Light The World Giving Machines situated near Oh George at the Ground Floor of Ayala Center Cebu until January 2, 2023.
Reverend Father Alex K. Cola Jr. of Cebu Caritas expressed his appreciation to their partners and leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Meanwhile, Kim Morisson of the Mabuhay Deseret Foundation talked about what the charity organization meant to the different Filipino communities. Ofelia Cardeno of Feed the Children also made a remark on the impact of such an initiative to the children. They were also joined by Elder Steven and Sister Susan Bangerter of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints during the unveiling of the two Light the World Giving Machines at the Ayala Mall.
These Light the World Giving Machines is like any vending machine but with a unique twist. You choose the item that you wish to purchase, insert the cash, and retrieve the item that you want. You’ll then proceed to deposit the said item into the main unit where it will be donated to different local communities. Among the items found on the vending machine are medicine kits, measles vaccines, vision therapy, food for families, school items such as backpacks, dorm and school fees for military orphans in the recent war in Mindanao, and more.
All the donations will be accounted for and all of the proceeds will go directly to the community while the Church covers all of the operational costs. This will ensures donations reach the intended beneficiaries.
Check out the Light The World Giving Machines situated near Oh George at the Ground Floor of Ayala Center Cebu from November 20, 2022 until January 2, 2023. Don’t forget to capture and share your Giving Machine experience with friends and family on social media to inspire people to donate and use #LightTheWorld.
You can also learn more about the Light the World initiative by visiting their official website or following them on their official Facebook and YouTube page.
