Vending Machine To Help Veterans Charity Opens In London

The first ever 'Giving Machine' opens in London following its success around the world (Picture: Mormon.Org).

A unique vending machine that allows people to make donations to charities by purchasing an item has arrived in London.

The first so-called ‘Giving Machine’ in the UK will support three charities including The Royal British Legion who provide support to servicemen and women, veterans and their families.

The vending machines are part of the 'Light the World' campaign that was originally launched by The Church of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) in the United States in 2017.

The campaign has collaborated with various global charities including UNICEF and the international humanitarian agency, CARE.

Items for donation include a winter coat for a veteran, food bundles for local homeless people and goats or chickens for families in need around the world.

John Boswell from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said the campaign raised $550,000 for local and global charities in 2017.

The RBL says items which can be purchased to help veterans include: 

Veteran’s Travel Costs: Help a veteran visit the hospital or get to a job opportunity (£5)

One Veteran’s Haircut: Help someone look the part for a much needed job interview (£15)

Job Training: Help a veteran get back on his or her feet (£25)

One Pair of Dress Shoes: Help someone look the part for a much needed job interview (£30)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says 100 per cent of all donations go directly to the partner charities for the purchased items.

The 'Giving Machine' in London is sited outside the Mormon's Hyde Park Chapel and Visitors Center at 64-68 Princes Gate and will be available through the Christmas season.