NYC Tests Free Fresh Food Vending Machines To Combat Food Insecurity

New York City has launched a pilot program featuring free fresh food vending machines for families facing food insecurity. Change Food For Good installed the first machine last month at the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club in Castle Hill, Bronx. The vending machine stocks fruits, vegetables, eggs, and nutritious staples instead of typical snacks. Users can take items without payment or paperwork. “The Good Food for All free food vending machine has been really well received by community members,” founder Samia Lemfadli told Newsweek. “Everyone’s been really excited to try out the machine.” Eggs have proven popular due to careful packaging that prevents breaking. The organization chose vending machines over open refrigerators to prevent tampering and track demand. Future installations are planned for schools, hospitals, and community spaces citywide. (Story URL)