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Giving Machines Unveiled on Giving Tuesday

The Giving Machine looks similar to a candy vending machine.

The Giving Machine looks similar to a candy vending machine.

Tysons recently hosted a new type of gift giving this holiday season in the form of a computerized machine called the “Giving Machine.” The machine enables the user to “swipe their card and donate products and services to charities in the DVM and around the world.”

"We are excited to offer Giving Tuesday opportunities for people visiting the Giving Machines at Tysons,” said Lisa Bartolomei, the director and spokesperson for the Giving Machines in the D.C. area. “These activities will directly impact people in the DMV. Whether it be tying a few knots on a quilt for a refugee or veteran, writing a card to someone who has blessed your life, or donating an item for the amazing local or international charities in the Giving Machines, it is sure to be a wonderful way to celebrate Giving Tuesday," she added.

At Tysons this week, the machines were set up outside the AMC Theaters and are sponsored by The Church ofAll wrapped up but no room under the tree.  Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Users can choose from 30 items to donate with the machine, and the local charities they can donate to include the Catholic Relief Services, House of Ruth, Mentos International, REACT DC, Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolines, Willing Warriors, and Young Doctors Project. The items sent with the machine cost between $15-$150 and 100 percent of the donation goes to the selected charities.

The Giving Machines were launched in 2017 and are now available in 32 states and 11 nations around the world. Tysons launched the Giving Machines on Giving Tuesday which is the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It is touted as a "global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world."

On giving Tuesday, don’t forget your struggling local weekly newspapers that need your help to keep doing good work and highlighting the important work of others and people in need. What do you need from your weekly Connection? Remember today is giving Tuesday and help your local papers keep going by donating to our GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/0afe1492