Wellness Vending Machine Now Available

Millersville University has installed a new wellness vending machine designed to provide students with convenient and affordable access to health and wellness products. The vending machine is located in the lower level of the Student Memorial Center in the lounge near the campus Chick-fil-A.

The initiative grew out of a project developed through the President's Leadership Institute, a 10-month professional development program led by University President Daniel Wubah. The initiative is led by Lauren Blevins, director of health services, and Susan Moyer, interim chair and associate professor in the Wehrheim School of Nursing.

The pair identified a need to improve access to everyday health and wellness items while promoting a stronger culture of well-being on campus.

"The machine's main purpose is to provide students with convenient access to cost-effective reproductive and healthcare products, especially those that may be needed discreetly, urgently or after-hours," shares Blevins.

The vending machine offers over-the-counter medications, personal care items and free products including Narcan, pregnancy tests and tampons.

The project is co-sponsored by Millersville University's Health Services, Wehrheim School of Nursing, Center for Health Education and Promotion and the Pennsylvania State Employee Credit Union. Project funding was provided through a grant from the Jewish Healthcare Foundationas part of its College and University Health Vending grant program. Additional co-sponsors and donors helped to bring the vending machine project to fruition.

In addition to providing products, the machine also serves as an educational tool. Each item is connected to a QR code that directs students to comprehensive support services ranging from on-campus departments to community-based organizations such as the YWCA and Domestic Violence Services.

Student input played a critical role in shaping the initiative. During the Wellness Fair last April, students shared feedback on the types of products they wanted and discussed challenges related to affordability and stigma when purchasing health items in traditional retail settings.

"Our belief is that access and affordability matter," shares Blevins. "Products are priced slightly above cost, with the modest margins used exclusively to cover operational overhead," she adds.

The wellness vending machine reflects Millersville's ongoing commitment to supporting student health by increasing access to resources, encouraging self-care and fostering a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.

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