The Codman Square Health Center opened its new public health vending machine to the public this month after more than a year of planning with the community and Boston Public Health Commission.
A key goal is to combat drug overdoses with Narcan (Naloxone) nasal sprays, which are effective in reducing the effects of an ongoing OD.
In addition to Narcan, free items include emergency blankets, socks, family planning, HIV self-tests, disposable CPR kit, water, and snacks. More than 200 items were dispensed in the first four days of operation, officials said, with the most popular item being socks.
Pictured here with the vending unit at the health center’s front door on Washington Street are Daniel Goodwin, Emerson Miller, Dr. Guy Fish, Ursel Hughes, Darian Leta (Mass League of Community Health Centers), and Andrew Wise. Seth Daniel photo
