Giving Machine coming to North Lakes

Christmas shoppers at Westfield North Lakes will soon be able to buy gifts for people in need, with a Giving Machine arriving later this month to support six Queensland charities, including Hope Ventures, which has a presence in Rothwell.

The machine, which will operate from November 24 to December 28, looks like a traditional vending machine but offers shoppers the chance to donate practical items and services rather than buy something for themselves.

Hope Ventures is among the charities taking part, with shoppers able to contribute $5 towards its Community Connections initiative.

Other gifts range from 20 meals through Foodbank for $10 and a $15 dignity pack through Rosies to $50 towards hospital accommodation through Angel Flight and $60 worth of toys through GIVIT.

BlazeAid Australia is also involved, offering gifts such as a $10 steel picket to help communities recover from natural disasters.

Shoppers simply select a gift from the machine and pay by card, with organisers saying 100 per cent of each donation goes directly to the chosen charity. Operating costs and card fees are covered separately.

Giving Machine Queensland spokesperson Peter Harlow said the initiative made it easier for people to support those in need.

"Giving Machines make it easy to give something real to someone close to home. You choose a gift, tap your card, and 100% of your donation goes to the charity you've chosen."

The machines raised $98,540 across Queensland last year, with 4047 transactions supporting six charity partners.

This year's campaign will operate at six locations across South East Queensland, stretching from the Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast.

The North Lakes machine will officially launch on Tuesday, November 24, at 3.30pm, with charity representatives and local leaders expected to attend.

It will remain at Westfield North Lakes until December 28, excluding Christmas Day.

For more information visit givingmachine.org.au/queensland.