Fresno community raised more than $190,000 for local charities

The inaugural Giving Machine in Fresno ran Dec. 11, 2025–Jan. 2, 2026, drawing about 8,800 visits and more than 9,000 charitable purchases; organizers say the effort raised over $190,000 for local nonprofits.

The Giving Machine made its Fresno debut on Dec. 11, 2025, and operated through Jan. 2, 2026. The device functions like a vending machine but dispenses donation cards that support charities. Organizers and community members gathered at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to mark the campaign's conclusion. Officials reported that roughly 8,800 people visited the machine and more than 9,000 charitable items were purchased. Key details: - Organizers say the Giving Machine campaign in Fresno raised over $190,000 during its run. - Purchased items included food, clothing, shelter support, grief resources, school kits, cooking pots, and livestock donations such as baby goats. - The donations were directed to local organizations including Catholic Charities, Family Healing Center, Fresno Immigrant and Refugee Ministry, Hinds LifeCare, and Poverello House. - Nationally and internationally, officials reported more than 500 nonprofits participated across 126 Giving Machine locations in the 2025 season. - The initiative is sponsored and funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and organizers said 100% of donations go to participating charities. Summary: Organizers and partner charities described the funds as translating into meals, shelter, counseling, and essential supplies for people served by the participating groups. The Giving Machine is scheduled to return in December 2026, and officials said organizations can apply to participate by May 1, 2026.