ALLENTOWN, Pa. — The city has installed its first public health vending machine, dispensing free and confidential 24/7 access to a range of health and safety supplies.
The machine, located at the Lehigh Conference of Churches at 457 W. Allen St., is fully stocked and available for public use. A second machine is planned, with its location to be announced, according to a city news release.
Designed for accessibility and visibility, the vending machine features bright navy blue and pink colors and includes bilingual instructions in English and Spanish.
City Communications Director Genesis Ortega said the contents can be accessed simply by keying in an access code posted on the machine.
Items currently available include naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication), wound care kits, reproductive and sexual health kits, hygiene and first-aid supplies, and educational materials.
City officials said menstrual products such as pads and tampons will be added soon, along with other hygiene items like toothbrushes, based on community feedback.
The initiative is part of Allentown’s Substance Use Task Force. Organizers say it aims to reduce barriers to care by placing essential supplies in trusted, accessible locations.
Officials said the machines are a step toward addressing ongoing public health challenges and supporting residents' safety and well-being around the clock.
Funding for the machines comes from opioid settlement funds.
The Allentown Health Bureau is also accepting donations of menstrual products. Donors can send supplies through Amazon or drop them off in person at the health bureau at 245 N. Sixth St.
For more information, contact the health bureau at 610-437-7760.
