News

Coinstar helping kids help other kids

December 12, 2011

Kids now have a way to help other kids, thanks to Change Making Change Fund, a non-profit organization. Young people can participate by donating a handful of spare change to CMC through one of about 17,000 Coinstar kiosks across the U.S., or online at cmcfund.org

Through CMC, kids are connected at the kiosks with a number of domestic and international children's charities, including International Justice Mission, a human rights agency that brings rescue to victims of slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violent oppression; First Book, provider of new books for children in need; and the Chikumbuso Women and Orphans Project in Zambia, according to a company press release.

"Giving to Change Making Change is simple: since nearly every household accumulates change, it's easy to grab a handful and bring it to a Coinstar kiosk where it can be donated to support terrific causes," Rich Stillman, founder and executive director, Change Making Change, said in the release. "These small donations, even just a pocketful or cup of coins, can help make a big difference in the life of a young person in need."

In its first few weeks of operation, CMC has generated more than $12,000 in donations for their supported charities. Now that CMC has officially been introduced to the American public, CMC hopes its "for children, by children" approach will inspire young people to pursue more opportunities to give back and encourage others to do the same for the greatest impact, Stillman said.

"We really hope to start a ripple effect, where one child encourages five, ten or more friends to donate in the same way," he said.

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