DES MOINES, Iowa —

A vending machine at the Polk County Health Department does not have chips or soda for snacks.

Instead, it's carried items to support residents' health. Items like naloxone, contraception, period packs, gun locks and more line the shelves.

They are available 24/7 for free.

"We just know that more people are hearing about the machine and asking us about it coming up and using it," says Addie Olson, communications officer with the health department.

In May, there were 1,300 items taken.

In the last few months, the average has gone up to 2,300 items per month.

For the last six months, the Plan B contraceptive pill has been the most vended item with 1,886 received. That was followed by lubricant with 1,278 items and latex-free condoms at 1,187.

"We think the number

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