Richland Public Health Introduces Free Vending Machine for Health Essentials

Richland Public Health has unveiled a new initiative to enhance community health access by installing a free vending machine stocked with essential health items.

 

Located outside the Richland Public Health building at 555 Lexington Ave. in Mansfield, this vending machine operates 24/7, providing residents with free access to various health products.

 

The machine offers items such as pregnancy tests, first aid kits, menstrual products, hand sanitizer, travel-sized toiletries, tick removal kits, COVID-19 and flu tests, and dental care packages.

 

Additionally, it includes potentially lifesaving supplies like Narcan (for opioid overdose reversal), fentanyl test strips, and Deterra packets for safe medication disposal.

 

Health Commissioner Julie Chaya emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating, "Everybody should have access to these sorts of things. Not everybody has the financial means to afford some of these things."

 

The vending machine is climate-controlled to ensure product efficacy throughout the year.

 

For those facing transportation challenges, Richland Public Health offers a mobile health unit and can mail items upon request. Residents can call 419-774-4500 for assistance.

 

In addition to the vending machine, the department has partnered with the nonprofit Vitamin Angels to provide free prenatal vitamins. Women who are pregnant, capable of becoming pregnant, or lactating can receive a six-month supply by visiting the health department or calling the provided number.

 

These initiatives reflect Richland Public Health's commitment to removing barriers and promoting community well-being.