INDIANAPOLIS — As central Indiana shoppers went started their holiday shopping on Black Friday, Clay Terrace has a new opportunity for shoppers to add more items to their Christmas lists.
A red vending machine sits in front of Jos A. Bank, but it's not for people to stop by and grab a snack. It's a place to donate to international charities.
"So many people want to give around the holidays, and we've made it as simple as possible," volunteer Brenna Donnelly Ford said.
There are many Giving Machines around the country. The Clay Terrace location and one at Newfields is a first for Central Indiana. While out shopping, people can come up to the machine and buy items like clothing, meals and necessities for families all around the world. Items to purchase range in price from $3 to $300.
"You'll walk away also giving something to someone in need," Ford says. "You say 'I bought a sweater, shoes and three chickens for a family in West Africa so they can start a family business.'"
Ashley Kinard and her family came to the opening of the Giving Machine and while they planned on doing some shopping, donating to other families was on the top of their list.
"Black Friday is a day about buying for yourself, and now we are here to help others," she said.
Both Giving Machines will be open until January 7th and after they are gone, donations can be made at lighttheworld.org/give.