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Richmond, VA — Richmond is taking a massive leap forward in community care. The City of Richmond announces that the Harm Reduction Vending Machine program is officially doubling in size. The introduction of these machines would not be possible without dedicated collaboration of our community partners. Health Brigade’s Comprehensive Harm Reduction Team, Richmond Henrico Health District, and the Richmond Opioid Task Force introduced these initiatives in early 2024 and continue to provide vital support for this expansion.
Following the City Council’s passage of Ordinance ORD. 2026-037, the City is authorized to accept a strategic grant from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA). This funding allows Richmond to grow from three units to six, which marks significant progress in our commitment to public health and ensuring more residents have the tools they need to stay safe. The machines provide free, 24-hour autonomous access to Naloxone (Narcan), drug checking test strips, and basic first aid/hygiene supplies. This low-barrier approach allows residents to access tools for safety without the barriers of cost or stigma.
The expansion builds on the success of the City’s 2025 pilot program. Over the last six months, existing vending machines have dispensed 916 doses of naloxone, 276 fentanyl test strips, and 1,250 units of first aid and hygiene supplies. In response to a rapidly changing drug supply, the City will introduce xylazine test strips, nitazene test strips, and medetomidine test strips to new and existing machines. Expanded access to drug checking equips individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions and take greater control of their safety.
"All community members deserve free and autonomous access to naloxone and the supplies they need to stay safe," says Anna Jones, City of Richmond Opioid Strategist. "We are so grateful to our partners at the Richmond Henrico Health District, Health Brigade’s Comprehensive Harm Reduction Team, and the support of the Richmond Opioid Task Force. Harm Reduction Vending Machines represent a vital investment in compassionate, evidence-based public health policy proven to reduce overdose deaths and improve access to care."
By utilizing fatal and nonfatal overdose data in the city and direct community input, the Opioid and Substance Use Response Team (OOSUR) has identified the North Avenue, Broad Rock, and Ginter Park libraries as the new homes for these machines. Libraries already function as central hubs for our community, providing resource connection, care, and support. This intentional partnership allows for the unique integration of harm reduction supplies in welcoming and accessible spaces. These sites were selected to ensure that life-saving resources are embedded directly within the neighborhoods that need them most.
“Our mission in Human Services is to ensure that every Richmond resident has access to the resources necessary to thrive, says Amy Popovich, Deputy Chief Administrator of Human Services. "These vending machines are a critical component of a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes human dignity and community wellness. We are proud to support this initiative as we continue to lean into innovative solutions that save lives and strengthen our neighborhoods.”
By integrating these machines into public library spaces, the City continues to treat the opioid crisis as a critical public health priority. The new units are slated to be operational by late Spring 2026.
Current and Upcoming Locations
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