Customer Experience

Erie County health kiosk offers free supplies around the clock

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October 7, 2026

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The Erie County Department of Health in Pennsylvania has installed a vending machine offering free Narcan, condoms, tampons and other health supplies 24 hours a day, according to a Centre Daily Times report.

Located outside the department at 606 W. Second St., the kiosk was installed in mid-September and unveiled Oct. 1. Officials said it aims to make supplies easier to obtain while reducing the discomfort some people feel asking for them.

Users enter a code displayed on the machine and their ZIP code to receive supplies. Officials plan to use ZIP code data to identify demand and consider additional locations. A secure needle disposal unit stands beside the kiosk, which also stocks small sharps containers, socks, emergency blankets, first-aid kits and dental hygiene supplies. A wireless connection alerts staff when inventory runs low.

Purchasing, installing and stocking the kiosk and disposal unit cost about $17,000, funded through grants and opioid settlement money. Officials hope the installation will support efforts to reduce overdoses and sexually transmitted infections. County overdose deaths fell from 113 in 2023 to 44 in 2025. Staff said first-aid and dental hygiene kits were among the earliest supplies taken during the initial operating period.