Vending

Wisconsin health department launches free supply vending machine

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September 30, 2026

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The Oneida County Health Department in Wisconsin has installed its first public health vending machine, giving residents and visitors free access to health and safety supplies around the clock, according to a WAOW News report. The machine sits beneath the rear awning outside the department and Aging and Disability Resource Center at 100 W. Keenan St. in Rhinelander.

Available items include hygiene, laundry and menstrual kits; dental supplies for adults and children; first aid kits; condoms; socks; gunlocks; and Deterra drug deactivation bags. Seasonal offerings include summer wellness and tick removal kits. The program aims to reduce financial barriers while providing a private, convenient way to obtain supplies.

Acacia Lane Dental contributed children's dental kits, while the Rhinelander Police Department and Iron Mountain VA donated gun locks to encourage safe firearm storage. The department will rely on continued community support and donations to replenish the machine.