There’s a new red adornment joining the Christmas scene in downtown Franklin this year. It’s not a bow, or a glittery ornament … but a vending machine!
At first this might seem misplaced among the traditional Christmas tree lighting and Dickens of a Christmas, but upon closer inspection it is soon evident that these big red machines are perfectly placed.
As families excitedly wind their way down bustling Main Street making new memories together with the feeling of joy swirling through the air, a new memory awaits them in the lobby of 231 Public Square. It’s a memory of giving joy to someone else this year, to someone in need. It is waiting at the Giving Machines.
The ultimate in philanthropic charity at your fingertips, the Giving Machines offers local and global charities a unique platform before the community. Rather than buying a snack or beverage for yourself, you can instantly purchase a gift for someone in need- a meal, warm coat, diapers, home building supplies, or even a goat. With items ranging in price from $5 – $400, giving is truly accessible to even the youngest of visitors.
From the moment you walk in the doors, you will feel this place is special. Something important is happening here. Something life changing- for the receiver, and the giver. Perhaps it is not merely a transaction of goods, but a transaction of love from one heart to another.
So as you plan your route through Main Street this December, plan to warm your hands and hearts inside at the Giving Machines. A place to continue or start a family tradition of giving. A place to make a Christmas memory unlike any other that will last a lifetime.
WHAT: The Giving Machines
WHERE: 231 Public Square Lobby
WHEN: December 1-10 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
The #LighttheWorld Giving Machines were started in 2017 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who cover the operating costs of the machines so that 100% of all donations made go directly to the charities. The machines have raised more than $22 million dollars and are in more than 60 cities worldwide. This is Middle Tennessee’s third year hosting the machines. The charities featured this year are The Branch, Bridges DVC, Greenhouse Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, African Girls’ Hope, CARE, and American Red Cross.
For more information, visit givingmachine.org.
