Vending

Grants expand wellness vending machines at community colleges

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September 28, 2026

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A national grant program is helping community colleges and nearby organizations install wellness vending machines stocked with over-the-counter health products. The machines can offer medication, menstrual and hygiene supplies, condoms and emergency contraception without requiring students to make an appointment, according to a press release from the American Society for Emergency Contraception.

The organization said more than 160 U.S. campuses now have vending machines that include emergency contraception, up from 16 in 2020. It said the machines can be useful for students who commute or attend evening classes, particularly at community colleges that may lack an on-campus health clinic or bookstore.

The American Society for Emergency Contraception and the American College Health Foundation said their Community College Vending Machine Grant Program is funding installations at eight community colleges, one public health department and three community organizations. The machines funded through the program will offer over-the-counter contraception on or near campuses.

The groups expect to announce another grant cycle in early 2027. They are also encouraging students, families, and college staff to advocate for machines where access to basic health supplies is limited.