By Ethan Benedicto
As the Christmas season draws nearer, it becomes clear that there are many who are unable to buy their loved ones presents and many who are struggling to gain access to basic living amenities such as food, water and shelter.
The Giving Machines that opened in Narre Warren give everyday people a chance to support others through the form of a vending machine and the touch of a few buttons.
It serves as a donation that extends a helping hand through a hygiene pack, a hot shower, or even providing 40 meals to families in need.
Officially launched on Wednesday, 27 November, by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the pair of machines in Westfield Fountain Gate are some of many in over 108 locations around the world.
Shar Balmes, the church’s communications director said “I am so excited”.
“I truly feel humbled and privileged to be part of this, even in a small way.
“I am beyond impressed and grateful for the charity partners that we have and the work they do out and about.
“Overall, it’s is an important service that we’re giving, not just to the recipients of the donations but to the people who have that moment of experiencing the joy of giving,” she said.
How the machines work is someone would first browse the wide range of charitable donations that they could choose and from there, they pick the number and pay, much like a regular vending machine.
From there, a card drops to the bottom of the machine, representing the gift that you would be sending to someone else.
Elder Damon Page also addressed the crowd, first of all thanking everyone for their attendance and then touching on the importance of the machines, and the wide array of support that they are able to provide for those in need.
“The Giving Machines are about enlightening the world, and as a church, we encourage and invite everyone to follow those steps,” he said.
“If you look across here there are so many items that people can contribute to whether it’s food items, personal care, there is something there for everybody.”
Also in attendance were the charities to which the donations would be going to, with representatives from UNICEF, Blaze Aid, Foodbank and Backpacks 4 VIC Kids speaking on the joy of Christmas and how a simple donation could easily change a life.
The City of Casey’s deputy mayor, Melinda Ambros, alongside Casuarina Ward councillor Kim Ross were also present, with Ambros saying how it’s “a great privilege to be standing here before everyone and to come together to celebrate this special time of the year.”
“This time of the year is the time for family, for reflection, and most importantly for kindness, it’s a time to remember the power we have to make a difference in the lives of others,” she said.
Ross likewise echoed the sentiments, but praised the ingenuity and “novelty” of the machines, saying that they cater to a wide range of audiences with their ease of use.
“Christmas is my favourite season, so this [the machines] really appeal to our younger generation, and of course the older generation but it also makes that a bit more personable, with the photos being easy to share on social media – I think the setup is a fantastic idea,” she said.
So far, these Giving Machines have raised over $33 million across the globe, supporting over 450 charities and being praised by many.
With another set of machines in Highpoint Shopping Centre, it doesn’t seem long until the bright red machines are all around the state.
