This past holiday season, Bellevue LifeSpring had the incredible opportunity to be a nonprofit partner for the Light the World Giving Machine, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Located at Alderwood Mall in Lynnwood, the unique vending machine-like giving experience made it easy to donate essential items, like nutrition support or a warm winter coat, to local children and families in need.
Thanks to the outpouring of support, an incredible $29,025 was raised! The impact of these donations goes far beyond the holiday season, offering children and families a sense of stability and hope for the future.
For one Bellevue family, that hope came at a crucial moment.
Camila, a single mom with two young children who attend the Bellevue School District, was on the verge of eviction after an unexpected medical emergency kept her from working. With the mounting medical bills and lost wages, she found herself unable to make ends meet.
Camila’s experience is similar to that of many families who turn to Bellevue LifeSpring for support during their time of need. When families are living paycheck to paycheck, they are just one unforeseen event away from financial strain, putting children at risk of experiencing hunger or homelessness.
When illness took away Camila’s ability to work, the fragile balance that kept her family afloat crumbled. Thanks to our generous community members, like the individuals who visited the Giving Machine, we were able to step in to provide immediate emergency rent and nutrition support. This assistance ensured that Camila’s children had their basic needs met and gave Camila the stability she needed to move forward in a positive direction.
“The impact of the Light the World Giving Machine is truly heartwarming,” shared Bellevue LifeSpring Executive Director Jennifer Fischer. “The generosity we saw this past holiday season is not just a moment in time; it’s an investment into the future of our Bellevue community. Together, we can build a Bellevue where the basic needs of all children are met so they can focus in the classroom, succeed in their education, and thrive.”
From all of us at Bellevue LifeSpring, thank you to everyone who stopped by the Giving Machine and donated! Your kindness is helping to build a stronger, more compassionate community for all.
