Three harm reduction vending machines have been installed in Richmond. Are more on the way? | Photo via Anna Jones, OOSUR
This past summer, the City of Richmond installed its first harm reduction vending machines, which dispense public health and personal hygiene items at no cost.
Two machines were installed in July — one at Marshall Plaza and another at Southside Plaza. The third proposed harm reduction machine was installed at East End Library on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Richmond’s third harm reduction machine sits behind the East End Library on North 25th Street, Church Hill.
Photo by RICtoday
What’s the project status now? We spoke with Project Director Anna Jones to answer a few questions about current installations + upcoming plans.
How much have the machines been used?
According to recent stats collected by Jasmine Blue with RHHD, the first two machines dispensed 704 free items between July and September.
We took a closer look at what items that total number includes, whether more installations are on the way, and what potential changes the machines may see.
Election Day. This general election will determine Virginia’s Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, House of Delegates, and local office representatives. Find your polling location so you can use your voice.
Biz
Richmonders are just a few building blocks away from visiting the new LEGO store in Short Pump. The shop’s official opening is set for Friday, Nov. 7. We haven’t heard news of an original Richmond-themed LEGO set, but you can still brainstorm your best ideas. (WRIC)
Coming soon
New bar alert. Cahoots Neighborhood Bar is setting the scene in the Fan. Take a look at the upcoming Floyd Avenue spot — dark-lit, moody, and channeling the atmosphere of a sophisticated speakeasy.
Trending
You’ve probably heard of Little Libraries with take-and-trade books, but where do you casually swap out old puzzles? The 900 block on Carter Street. See how Maymont’s new neighborhood puzzle library is piecing together some fun + free local trades.
Learn
In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, the Library of Virginia will host a virtual author talk tomorrow, Nov. 5. Historian Kathleen DuVal will chat about her Pulitzer-Prize-winning book “Native Nations: A Millennium in North America.” Register for free.
Community
The river-access towers at 22nd and 42nd streets are officially closed for maintenance, now through Thursday, Nov. 20. Alternative routes for 22nd Street include the Manchester, Potterfield, and Richmond Highway bridges, while 42nd Street users can opt for Nickel Bridge or the Reedy Creek parking lot.
Cause
Last chance to support moms and babies. Virginia Physicians for Women is collecting diapers, formula, breastfeeding essentials, postpartum supplies, and more at any VPFW location through Nov. 11. Can’t drop by? Donate via their Amazon Wishlist and help a mama in need today.*
Job
Ready to kickstart your career in digital media sales remotely? We’re looking for a Sales Coordinator to fuel our fast-paced sales team, with a competitive salary, premium benefits, unlimited PTO, and real growth opportunities to boot. Apply to join our team.
Shop
This lightweight leafblower is the perfect fall tool for removing leaves from your yard, with cruise control and a quiet yet powerful motor for under $80.*
The Buy
Your ticket to upgrading your skill set with Babbel’s fall sale. Speaking a new language opens doors — whether you’re eyeing a career change, a promotion, or just looking to enhance your life. Get 60% off Babbel’s 10-minute daily lessons and enjoy expert-designed language courses and a new AI-powered tool.*
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
🎃 Pumpkins for Pigs: Which of these items is NOT on the list of commonly accepted donations?
60.8% of our readers got this one right. Tires are NOT included as commonly accepted donations. Fruits, kiddie pools, and bread, on the other hand, are some pig-friendly favorites.
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