SHIM will be one of five local nonprofits featured in Pittsburgh’s first-ever Light the World Giving Machine, a unique holiday experience that makes charitable giving as simple—and joyful—as buying a snack from a vending machine.
The Giving Machine will open to the public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10, at Tanger Outlets Pittsburgh, offering shoppers an easy way to support families in need across the region. With every “purchase,” donors select a card representing a high-need item—such as groceries, after-school snacks, diapers, or winter clothing—and 100% of their donation goes directly to the chosen organization. All operating costs are covered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Supporting SHIM Families, One Item at a Time
For SHIM, the Giving Machine provides a new way for the community to support neighbors facing food insecurity and financial strain. Items benefiting SHIM include:
- After-school snacks for local children
- Groceries for families visiting SHIM’s food pantries
- Diapers for infants and toddlers
- Garden seeds for SHIM’s community gardens
- A laptop for youth participating in SHIM’s mentoring programs
A Global Movement Arrives in Pittsburgh
Light the World Giving Machines have become a worldwide tradition, appearing this year in more than 125 cities across 30 states and 21 countries. Last year alone, Giving Machines generated $16.4 million in donations globally, providing meals, clothing, hygiene items, vaccines, and other essentials to families around the world.
Four other local nonprofits are joining SHIM in the Giving Machine: Auberle, The Brashear Association, Catholic Charities of Pittsburgh, and Jewish Family and Community Services.
Celebrate “SHIM Night” on December 18
To help raise awareness and bring the community together, SHIM will host a special SHIM Night at the Giving Machine:
Wednesday, December 18
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Tanger Outlets Pittsburgh
Families, volunteers, donors, and supporters are invited to stop by, take photos, meet SHIM staff, and learn more about SHIM’s programs—while making a donation right at the machine.
The Giving Machine will remain open throughout the holiday season at Tanger Outlets Pittsburgh. SHIM encourages the community to visit, explore the items available, and help neighbors in the South Hills thrive.
