Giving Machines will return to University Place in Orem this November, offering shoppers a way to support various charities through reverse vending machines. According to a November 9 report, the machines will be available through January 1, 2027, during the mall's business hours, excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The machines will be located inside the west entrance near Dillard’s at 575 E. University Parkway. An opening celebration is scheduled for Monday, November 23, at 7 p.m., which will feature a performance by violinist Jenny Oaks Baker and emcee Elder Matt Richardson. The event will include charity information booths and light refreshments.
The initiative is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which covers operational costs so that 100 percent of each donation goes directly to the participating nonprofits. In addition to two international charities, the machines will support six local organizations: Wasatch Adaptive Sports, Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry, The Sharing Place, Stella H. Oaks Foundation, Show Up Utah—an initiative of Utah first lady Abby Cox—and Meals on Wheels Summit, Utah & Wasatch.
The local organizations address various community needs. Wasatch Adaptive Sports focuses on outdoor recreation for people with disabilities, while Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry assists those facing food insecurity in Utah County. The Sharing Place provides grief-support groups for families following the death of a loved one. The Stella H. Oaks Foundation provides scholarships for single mothers, Show Up Utah encourages community service, and Meals on Wheels Summit, Utah & Wasatch supports homebound seniors.
