Thank you Tyler Paper for the feature.
Giving Machines raise nearly $87,000 for CASA for Kids of East Texas through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Read more at: https://tylerpaper.com/2026/04/10/the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints-raises-nearly-87000-for-casa-for-kids-of-east-texas-through-giving-machines/
The Light the World Giving Machines, organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, raised almost $87,000 for CASA for Kids of East Texas, providing critical support for children in foster care across the region. Mary Jo Burgess, executive director of CASA for Kids of East Texas, said the Texas Giving Machines offered a unique and impactful way for community members to give at three stops in McKinney, Arlington and Grapevine, Texas. This was the first year an East Texas nonprofit was selected for the Texas Giving Machine. Through vending machine-style displays, individual donors could purchase essential items such as clothing, hygiene supplies, and school materials for those in need with all the proceeds going to participating charities. The vending machines hold cards where the food would be that have images of the donation on them and once purchased drop into the bucket below.
CASA for Kids of East Texas, headquartered in Tyler, advocates for children in foster care, working to ensure they have safe, permanent homes and access to resources that support their well-being. The funds raised will help meet immediate and ongoing needs for foster children and play a vital role in supporting children’s health, confidence and sense of belonging, Burgess said. “For example, one sports equipment item can be the difference that enables a child to participate in sports and enjoy team camaraderie,” said Burgess. “Hygiene items meet physical needs as well as help develop self-esteem.” Contributions included 1,072 school supply items totaling $10,720, 732 teen care kits totaling $18,300 and 684 sports equipment items totaling $17,100. Donors also provided 456 Christmas gifts valued at $18,240 and 451 clothing items totaling $22,550 for a grand overall total of $86,910.
The check was presented on March 27 from the Church to CASA for Kids of East Texas and Burgess said the reception was emotional. The two organizations have an ongoing partnership of volunteerism and commitment to community. Burgess said the success of the campaign highlights the generosity of East Texans and the lasting impact that simple acts of giving can have on vulnerable children in the foster care system. “Thank you to every donor,” Burgess said. “Each donation makes a difference in someone’s life no matter the amount, no matter the charity.”
Read more at: https://tylerpaper.com/2026/04/10/the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints-raises-nearly-87000-for-casa-for-kids-of-east-texas-through-giving-machines/