SOUTH STRABANE TOWNSHIP, Pa. —
Special vending machines at Tanger Outlets in Washington County allow people to donate to local charities by purchasing items like garden seeds, diapers, laptops, and even chickens.
The giving machines, which opened in one city in 2017, are making their debut in the Pittsburgh area. They partnered with five local charities to provide a variety of donation options, including necessities like groceries and other items that families may struggle to afford.
Five-year-old Brady Thurman from Monroeville participated by selecting work boots, which dropped from the vending machine to signify his family’s donation. This action triggers Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Pittsburgh to supply the specific item chosen.
Catholic Charities is one of five local organizations involved, alongside South Hills Interfaith Movement, the Brashear Association, Jewish Family and Community Services, and Auberle.
