New harm reduction vending machine provides free health resources 24/7
DES MOINES, Iowa — A new harm reduction vending machine in Des Moines is providing free health resources 24/7 to Polk County residents.
The Family Planning Council of Iowa and the Polk County Health Department unveiled the vending machine outside the Polk County Health Department on Monday.
It dispenses Narcan to reverse opioid overdoses, emergency contraceptives, birth control, condoms, lube, harm reduction kits, gun locks, and more.
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Anyone can access the vending machine every day at any hour for free, and no ID or registration is required.
'We want to make it easy for the community to access essential resources, not requiring someone to schedule an appointment or ask a store clerk to unlock a case,' said Allison Smith, Executive Director of the Family Planning Council of Iowa.
The Polk County Health Department already provides free emergency contraceptives inside of the bathroom of their department. However, the building has to be open in order for residents to access these supplies. The vending machine now ensures easier access.
'We know that stigma, financial barriers, and accessibility challenges often prevent people from getting the resources they need,' said Juliann Van Liew, Polk County Health Department Director. 'This vending machine is a harm reduction strategy that meets people where they are, providing free and judgment-free access to critical health and safety tools.'
It will be regularly stocked and monitored to ensure it continues to meet community needs.
The Polk County Health Department is located at 1907 Carpenter Avenue in Des Moines.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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