COLUMBUS, Ohio — Visitors at Polaris Fashion Place will have a unique way to give back this holiday season.
A special "giving machine" was unveiled at the mall Friday afternoon in an event emceed by former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel. While it may look like an average vending machine, you won't find any food or drinks inside.
Instead, the machine gives individuals the opportunity to give back to those in need. Nestled in the slots of the vending machine are cards that, when bought, donate everything from meals, shelter, clothing, healthcare, education and livestock to people in need around the world.
Some of the vending machine's items include purchasing 100 meals for $25, school supplies for $20, a cow for $150 and an eye exam with glasses for $20.
One hundred percent of all donations go directly to the selected charity.
This is the first time Columbus has been chosen as a host city for the Light the World Giving Machines.
The machines first debuted in 2017 and have raised more than $32 million for local and global charities. In 2024, Giving Machines will be located in over 108 cities in the United States and internationally.
The machine at Polaris mall will remain open until Dec. 7 and is located on the second floor overlooking the children's play area.
Charities participating in the Columbus Light the World Giving Machine effort include:
Local Charities:
Global Charities: