Toni Polster brings the first giving machine to Austria: donations made easy!

Toni Polster brings the first giving machine to Austria: donations made easy!

An exciting, innovative project was recently launched at the Auhof Center Vienna: The first “Giving Machines” in Austria. These special donation machines were ceremoniously opened on November 17, 2025 by football legend Toni Polster. At the opening ceremony there were numerous representatives of aid organizations as well as the owner of the Auhof Center, KommR. Peter Schaider, present. With his symbolic first donation, Toni Polster set an example for solidarity and social commitment.

But what exactly are these giving machines? They were developed in the USA to make donations to various causes transparent, visible and simple. Visitors to the Auhof Center have the opportunity to donate small amounts to specific aid packages that include, for example, hot meals, school materials, medical care or support for families in need. The special thing about it: 100 percent of the donated amount goes to the respective organizations, without any deductions.

Simple help for everyone

The Giving Machines are available until January 6, 2026 and offer an ideal opportunity to do good, especially during Advent. The partner organizations, which include Diakonie Austria, VinziWerke Vienna, World Vision Austria and Ronald McDonald Children's Aid, underline the importance of the initiative. Maria Katharina Moser, director of the Diakonie, emphasized the social responsibility that arises during Advent, while Simon Soucek from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasized the importance of cooperation and commitment.

The machines are located on the first floor of the Auhof Center, right next to Intersport. Visitors can simply stop by and make donations during regular opening hours. This low-threshold form of helpfulness could appeal to many people and help more people in need receive more direct support.

A call for solidarity

In Austria, numerous non-profit organizations rely on donations to carry out their important projects. Examples include Doctors Without Borders, Caritas, the Red Cross and many others. A comprehensive list of aid organizations can be found on the Austrian government's platform, which calls for people to take an active part in supporting people in need. Initiatives like the Giving Machines show how easy it can be to make a contribution and show solidarity.

Whether for families in crisis situations, to support children or for medical care - the Giving Machines at the Auhof Center are a practical way to get involved. As Toni Polster demonstrated on opening day, a simple donation can make a big difference. Take the opportunity and help!

For more information and details about the partner organizations you can visit the following links: meinkreis.at, robinconsult.at and oesterreich.gv.at.