Richmond doubles harm reduction vending machines through grant

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond has doubled its number of harm reduction vending machines from three to six, according to an announcement by the city on Thursday.

On Thursday, Feb. 26, a city spokesperson announced that due to an ordinance approved by City Council, the city was authorized to accept a grant from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority.

The city said this will allow the addition of three new harm reduction vending machines to its program, which doubles the number of vending machines.

The machines reportedly provide free, 24-hour access to Naloxone, drug checking 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 city said in a press release.

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The expansion reportedly 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 addition, the city said that will add xylazine, nitazene and medetomidine test strips to new and existing machines in response to a rapidly changing drug supply.

By using fatal and nonfatal overdose data in the city and community input, the Opioid and Substance Use Response Team (OOSUR) reportedly identified the North Avenue, Broad Rock and Ginter Park libraries as the new homes for the vending machines. 

Vending machines are already located at Marshall Plaza, Southside Plaza and the East End Library.