Haven House to benefit from Giving Machine program

ALBUQUERQUE — Haven House will be getting a boost during the holiday season with the help of the Albuquerque Light the World Giving Machine.

The program from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints aims to “provide a unique, fun and memorable way to do an instant act of kindness,” according to an invite to last week’s kickoff luncheon. “Giving Machines are customized vending machines that allow the public to donate necessary products and services to fellow New Mexicans in need.”

Estella Weitz, Haven House’s executive director, said Sandoval County’s only domestic violence shelter will have gift cards to pay for pet food, electric bills, food and family bonding experiences for shelter residents.

Albuquerque’s vending machine will be set up in Cottonwood Mall starting Dec. 12 and will also benefit Saranam, Barrett Foundation, Cuidando Los Ninos and Bethel Community Storehouse as well as two global charities — Church World Service and Days for Girls. Giving will continue through Jan. 1.

Each charity selected a handful of products or services at various price points that are represented by gift cards. Those wishing to select one — or more — of the cards pay with a credit or debit card and watch the card drop into the bottom of the machine.

“I’m hoping the community can really embrace this idea and make it a simple and easy way for the community to help out Haven House,” said Michelle Bennett, board secretary.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to spread awareness of our services and connect with those we maybe haven’t connected with,” said board treasurer Isaac Baca.

Weitz said she was especially grateful for being selected for the inaugural Albuquerque Giving Machine, especially with the onset of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October and the loss of federal funding.

“It was an honor to be selected,” Weitz said of the Giving Machine program, noting that it will raise awareness for Haven House and provide exposure for the services it provides. She also said it’s a great opportunity to connect with other groups that can let others know about Haven House — and they can do the same for the other organizations’ services.

She and the board also noted the increased need during the holidays with added expenses and barriers the season can bring.

“We’ve been scrambling all year trying to fill in the gaps in resources we’re used to getting,” Bennett said. “This is the perfect way for our community to step in and help fill the gaps.”

Weitz said Haven House completed the application for the program a couple of months ago. She said the real challenge was “to narrow down all the needs to the few we put in there.”

Chuck Beinholt, who along with his wife Kim is serving as the city lead for the program, said the selection process began with charities in the area applying. A committee then reviewed the applications, looking for specific criteria. He said they were asked to look for programs that had priorities of women and children and provide a longer-term component and that there be an immediate need.

“To break the cycle, we have to have people around them long enough ... for them to get their confidence back,” he said. “Haven House has been great to work with ... I love what they’re doing.”

A kickoff event is set for 11 a.m. Dec. 12 on the lower level of Cottonwood Mall with a sneak peek at the New Mexico United Store Dec. 11. Special events centered on the Giving Machine are planned throughout the holiday season.

“I’m excited. I’m looking forward to how the whole process works,” Weitz said.