State Funding and Grants for College Wellness Vending Machines
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State Funding and Grants for College Wellness Vending Machines
Across the U.S., states and foundations are recognizing the importance of wellness vending machines in supporting student health, equity, and success. From funding initiatives in Washington to pilot programs in California, there is growing momentum behind grant programs that make it easier for colleges to provide 24/7 access to essential wellness products.
This guide summarizes current and proposed funding opportunities.
Washington: Direct Grants for Colleges
According to the Washington Student Achievement Council, the state allocated nearly $430,000 across 2024–2025 to fund wellness vending machines on public college campuses. Eligible institutions can receive up to $10,000 per grant to cover purchase, installation, and stocking.
California: Community College Grants
According to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, 17 community colleges each received $15,000 grants to install machines providing OTC medications, menstrual supplies, and emergency contraception.
California State University (CSU) Mandate
The California State University system was required by law to install wellness vending machines on at least five campuses, showing strong state-level support for student health through legislation.
Pennsylvania: Foundation-Funded Programs
In Pennsylvania, the Jewish Healthcare Foundation funded wellness vending at Point Park University, supporting discreet access to OTC and sexual health supplies.
Connecticut: Proposed State Grants
According to Vending Times, Connecticut lawmakers introduced a proposal to provide $5,000–$7,000 per campus in startup grants for wellness vending machines offering emergency contraception and OTC items.
What This Means for Colleges
These initiatives highlight a growing national trend: colleges are being supported, either through state budgets or local foundations, to expand student access to health and wellness supplies. The benefits include:
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Equity — ensuring all students can access affordable products
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Privacy — discreetly providing sensitive health items
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Academic success — reducing preventable absences due to minor health issues
Partnering With My BIO TESTS
At My BIO TESTS, we help colleges take advantage of funding opportunities — or move forward even without them. Through our Wellness Vending Machine Placement Program, we provide installation, stocking, and maintenance at no cost to your institution.
Whether or not your state offers grants, you can implement wellness vending machines today to support your students.