Los Angeles County has installed 51 vending machines to provide low-income residents across the county free access to COVID-19 tests, condoms, overdose medications, fentanyl test strips, and more.
“COVID-19 self-tests, naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and condoms allow individuals to take actions that protect themselves and others in the community,” Health Director Barbara Ferrer said in the statement.
Having free public health supplies available seven days a week through the self-service Community Health Stations makes it easier for residents to access products that can save lives, she added.
The machines are in locations that are easily accessible to the public, including pharmacies, community health centers, temporary homeless shelters, and drug and alcohol treatment centers.
Users will be asked to complete a short, anonymous survey about basic demographic information before they are allowed to get the products, but the survey is optional, according to the public health agency.
The machines were developed in partnership with the Department of Public Health’s Substance Abuse Prevention and Control bureau and the Division of HIV and STD Programs.
Residents in Sonoma County can now access drug overdose medication, condoms, dental hygiene kits, COVID tests, feminine hygiene products, pregnancy tests, socks, cable gun locks, and more from the machines, according to the county.
“This project aims to fill gaps in our current services by improving accessibility, reducing costs and ensuring privacy,” Sonoma County Public Health Director Amy Olson said in April. “By strategically placing these vending machines, stocked with harm-reduction products, health and hygiene items, and other essential resources, we can better support those who need these free resources the most.”
Customers are limited to three items per transaction.
The county plans to refine the offerings over time, based on what the public actually uses.
