Light the World: The Giving Machines Return to Elko

Article and photos submitted by Elise Frandsen

The season of giving is almost here, and our community is getting ready to make a difference together. From November 14 through December 7, the Giving Machines will be back at the Elko Junction Shopping Center by Raley’s.

This year, you can once again be part of something special, by helping local families, seniors, students, and others in need. Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference. Let’s come together to light up our community with kindness and generosity this holiday season.

The Giving Machines began in 2017 as part of the Light the World initiative, offering a fun and meaningful twist on charitable giving. Instead of purchasing something for yourself, you can choose to provide real, tangible help for others. Best of all, 100% of every donation goes directly to the selected local or global charities.

Since their debut, the machines have raised millions of dollars across cities worldwide, and Elko is proud to be part of that growing legacy. This marks the second year the Giving Machines have come to our community, and last year, Elko and the surrounding areas went above and beyond in their generosity.

This year, you can support five local organizations making a difference right here in Elko:

Horizon Hospice – Providing compassionate end-of-life care and support.

Communities In Schools – Helping students stay engaged and succeed in school.

Elko Senior Center – Offering meals, activities, and connection for older adults.

Head Start of Northeastern Nevada – Preparing young children for lifelong learning.

Nevada Health Centers – Elko – Delivering essential healthcare to underserved populations.

Mark your calendar for Thursday, November 14 at 12:00 PM, when we’ll kick off this year’s Giving Machines with a joyful community celebration at the Elko Junction Shopping Center. Bring your friends, your family, and your giving spirit as we launch this year’s machines and honor the incredible charities that serve our community every day.

Whether you’re donating a warm blanket, a health checkup, or a backpack full of school supplies, every swipe at the Giving Machines brings hope to someone in need. It’s quick, easy, and one of the most joyful ways to give back.

Giving through the machines is a special way to connect with our community. You can see exactly what your gift will provide, and you know it’s going straight to someone who needs it most. It’s generosity you can see in action.

So, Elko, let’s light the world again this year. Stop by the Giving Machines, bring your family, and be part of a tradition that’s changing lives one swipe at a time.