Over $22,000 was raised for Wood's Homes through the 2024 Giving Machines. (Photo: Light the World)

By David Opinko

Over $22K raised for Wood’s Homes through Giving Machines

May 7, 2025 | 9:44 AM

Vending machines that allow people to donate to local causes have turned up a sizable amount of money for Wood’s Homes.

The non-profit says it has received more than $22,000 from donors in the Lethbridge area.

The Giving Machines were located in Park Place Mall throughout the holiday season, allowing residents to purchase gifts.

A total of $5,200 was spent at the machines, which is enough to buy 347 pairs of pajamas for at-risk youths. Wood’s Homes says it is now working on buying that many pajamas for people served at its Emergency Youth Shelter and Community Group Homes.

Fund Development and Community Engagement Coordinator Carrie Dahl says this was a powerful demonstration of the community’s commitment to mental health and wellbeing.

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“Wood’s Homes wants to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in this initiative. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the organizing committee, the volunteers, and – mostly – the community who came out and visited the machines,” says Dahl.

The organization plans to spend all of the money locally and will return to the mall to support local businesses.

Organizers Richard and Gayle Low say they are thrilled with the outcome of the Giving Machines and confirmed that they will return in the 2025 holiday season.

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