HARM REDUCTION VENDING MACHINES INSTALLED IN SOMERSET COUNTY
Westover, MD - The Somerset County Health Department has announced the installation of three new harm reduction vending machines throughout Somerset County. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths in the region. The project is funded by Maryland's Opioid Restitution Fund.
The vending machines provide free access to essential harm reduction resources. Available items include naloxone (Narcan®), fentanyl test strips, xylazine test strips, Deterra® drug disposal bags, personal hygiene kits, wound care kits, and male latex condoms.
The aim is to enhance accessibility to health supplies while minimizing barriers and reducing the stigma associated with harm reduction care.
The primary goal of these machines is to offer confidential access to resources for individuals who use drugs, their families, support systems, or anyone in the community who may need these supplies. No personal information is required to use the machines, and there is no need for interaction with staff.
The harm reduction vending machine locations are as follows:
- UMES Residence Life Center, 10800 McCain Dr, Princess Anne
- Wellness & Recovery Center, 11674 Somerset Ave, Princess Anne
- Somerset County Health Department, 8928 Sign Post Rd, Westover
- Deal Island-Chance Volunteer Fire Company, 10090 Deal Island Rd, Deal Island
- Woodrow T. Wilson Community Center, 119 S. 7th St, Crisfield (indoor location, not available 24/7)
These machines are part of Maryland's statewide initiative to use opioid settlement funds to create sustainable, community-focused responses to the opioid crisis. The strategy includes prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery support services.
The Somerset County Health Department emphasizes that all services provided through the machines are completely confidential and accessible to anyone in the community.
