Giving Machines DC: Making Generosity as Easy as Buying a Candy Bar

What if giving back to your community and the world could be as simple — and fun — as grabbing a snack? That’s exactly the magic behind the Giving Machines in the Washington, D.C. area. Instead of dispensing candy or chips, these bright red vending machines allow you to choose meaningful gifts that are donated directly to local and global nonprofits — all with a quick tap or swipe. Running from now through January 4, 2026, the Giving Machines are stationed at Tysons Corner Center (AMC Theatre Entrance) in McLean, Virginia, welcoming holiday shoppers, families, and neighbors to participate in an uplifting giving experience. @dcgivingmachines

Visitors can choose from a variety of items — options include meals and hygiene kits to warm bedding and therapeutic play packs — the items in the machines reflect the real needs of people served by nonprofit partners. Every contribution, no matter the size, becomes a gift that changes lives. https://www.facebook.com/reel/...

How It Works

• Select a gift you want to give — each representing goods or services that support a nonprofit’s mission.
• Pay with credit card or mobile payment — no cash required.
• The machine dispenses a card showing what you’ve donated, giving you a tangible reminder of your impact.
• 100% of your donation goes to the nonprofit you choose, with operational costs underwritten so your generosity goes further.

Supporting Local and Global Change

Giving Machines DC partners with a diverse group of nonprofit organizations working on the frontlines to address critical needs. From food security and shelter to medical care and educational support, your gift helps real people in real ways. This holiday tradition has already inspired millions of acts of kindness since the first Giving Machine launched in 2017 — and in the DC area, it’s become a memorable way for families and individuals to Light the World together.

Join us for feature days this week as two of our local charities will be on location at the Giving Machines in Tysons Corner. Children's Hospital Network will be featured on Saturday, December 20th and Capital Area Food Bank will be featured on Monday, December 22nd.

Learn more about the seven charities that have partnered with Giving Machines DC.

Five Local Charities:

Capital Area Food Bank - The Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) works to address hunger today and create brighter futures tomorrow for over a million neighbors across the Greater Washington region experiencing food insecurity. Each year, CAFB sources and distributes the food for more than 60 million meals.

Central Union Mission - DC’s oldest private social service agency, has been a beacon of hope since 1884. Serving 5,500+ annually, it addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions through emergency shelter, food, addiction recovery, job training, and holistic care restoring hope and dignity.

Children’s National Hospital Foundation - the leading pediatric health system in the Washington, D.C., area. With community support, we provide world-class care and hope to more than 253,000 children and their families each year.

FACETS- opens doors for parents, children, and individuals experiencing poverty in Fairfax County. We envision a community where everyone has a safe home, access to solutions that break the cycle of poverty, and the opportunity to build a stronger future.

Homestretch- located in Falls Church, Homestretch empowers homeless families with housing and comprehensive support—like job training, counseling, and financial education—to achieve self-sufficiency. Over 90% of graduates maintain stable housing and employment long-term.

Two international charities:

Lifting Hands International - We provide aid to refugees, both at home and abroad. Simply Humanitarian.

UNHCR- USA for UNHCR protects and supports refugees by mobilizing resources, elevating awareness, and driving action through a network of engaged supporters.

Why It Matters

The Giving Machines transform the act of giving into something fun, accessible, and deeply meaningful. In a season often focused on receiving, this initiative invites everyone to pause and think about how they can make a difference. It’s a simple idea with extraordinary impact: one swipe, one gift, one life touched at a time. Visit GivingMachinesDC.org to learn more and discover how your generosity can light up someone’s holiday season and beyond.