WAUPACA, WI- The Waupaca County Department of Public Health (DPH) has introduced two free Public Health Vending Machines (PHVM) to enhance community health, safety, and well-being. These machines provide free, anonymous access to essential items, including nasal Naloxone (NARCAN®), Fentanyl test strips, gun locks, first aid kits, COVID-19 at-home test kits, tick kits, and condoms.
One PHVM is located at the Waupaca County Courthouse (first floor, 811 Harding St., Waupaca), and the other at the Compassionate Connections Center (entryway, 143 S. Main St., Clintonville).
“In 2022, we conducted a Community Health Assessment (CHA), and in 2023, we released our latest Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP),” said Jed Wohlt, Waupaca County Health Officer. “Community feedback identified mental health, substance use, and access to care as key priorities. The PHVMs are an evidence-based approach to addressing all three areas.”
These vending machines aim to reduce barriers by offering low-stigma access to resources for individuals who may not seek help for mental health or substance use concerns. Instructions for accessing the machines are available via QR codes on the machines or through the Waupaca County DPH website.
The project was funded by a $50,000 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, part of the state’s $400 million opioid settlement.
The PHVMs are an innovative step toward improving community health and ensuring resources are available to all residents and visitors of Waupaca County.
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