The holiday season often has a way of reminding us to slow down, gather with those we love and appreciate what we have. In Queen Creek, families have a unique opportunity to turn that gratitude into action, one vending machine selection at a time.
The Giving Machine Initiative is returning to the community this year, giving residents an easy way to help others in need during the holidays.
At first glance, it might appear like a traditional vending machine, but instead of selecting a snack or drink for yourself, you get to choose a donation that will provide necessities to a person in need.
Items in the Giving Machine Initiative include meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, educational resources and other necessities chosen by participating nonprofit organizations. It’s easy to use. Donors can simply browse the options, choose an item and make their donation right there.
The machines are part of the annual Light the World initiative from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but participation is open to everyone, regardless of faith.
Perhaps what makes the experience most memorable, particularly for families, is how easily it turns an idea like generosity into something people can see and understand in real time. A family might choose to provide a meal, while another donor might select clothing or hygiene supplies. Families, friends or co-workers can also make a visit to the machines part of their holiday traditions.
A Local Impact
Queen Creek has already seen how those individual selections can add up. According to the Town of Queen Creek, in 2025, a combined $75,000 went to House of Refuge and Harvest Pack, while the Mary Gloria Foundation received more than $40,000 through the Giving Machine Initiative.
The Mary Gloria Foundation serves Queen Creek, San Tan Valley and surrounding communities, helping individuals and families through food assistance and other community resources.
“This generous support has enabled us to reach more individuals and families facing difficult circumstances and provide them with much-needed assistance,” says Theresa Gloria-Palma, director of the Mary Gloria Foundation. “We deeply appreciate the difference this generosity is making in our community.”
For Haylie Studebaker of the Queen Creek Giving Machine Committee, the impact has shown her how the town can rally together.
“The Giving Machines have become an important part of the Queen Creek story because they reflect who we are as a community,” she says. “We show up for one another.”
Since the Giving Machine Initiative first appeared in 2017, the concept has spread worldwide. During the 2025 Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons, nearly 1 million people visited Giving Machines in 126 cities across 21 countries, purchasing nearly 5 million items through more than 500 participating nonprofit organizations.
In 2026, the program will support several nonprofit organizations throughout Arizona and around the world. Local partners include Control Alt Delete, which assists people and families fleeing domestic violence situations; Compassion Connect, which connects churches and community members with practical resources and services; and Superstition Community Food Bank, which has served East Valley families in need since 1983.
Each nonprofit chooses items that represent the real needs of the people it serves, allowing donors to see exactly what their gift will provide.
The program also includes a vetting and reporting process for participating nonprofits, and 100% of donations go directly to participating programs. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers the cost of operating the machines.
This year, Queen Creek residents can make a visit to the Giving Machines more than just another holiday errand. It can be a chance for individuals, families and friends to pause, reflect on what they are grateful for and turn that gratitude into generosity.
The Queen Creek Giving Machines will be located at Pecan Lake Entertainment, just off Riggs Road at 25004 S. 206th St. They will be available from Friday, Nov. 13, through Sunday, Dec. 6.
“The Giving Machine Initiative is an important part of the Queen Creek story because they reflect who we are as a community. We show up for one another.”