'Removing the stigma': Salvation Army installs free vending machine for clients

The Salvation Army is trying to quash the stigma people may feel when asking for basicnecessities with a new initiativea free vending machine, which allows people to access hygiene products with the push of a button.

"People that are coming from the outside and people that live inside can actually go to the vending machine and get their own products that they need," said Mark Stewart, director of transitional and emergency services at the Salvation Army. "[It] just give us a little bit more dignity so that you don't always have to come and ask for things."

The vending machine was donated byPark Avenue Vending and Coffee Company and installed at the Salvation Army's emergency shelterjust a few weeks ago.

When it's fully stocked, the vending machineis loaded with products like toothbrushes, socks, soaps, depends men's pads and feminine hygiene products.

People on the streets who frequent the Salvation Army weren't even aware some of the products were available.

"We'd see someone in poor hygienic condition and offer them toothpaste, deodorantyou name it,they would react with 'you have that?'," he said.

Stewart saidhe got the idea to install the machinewhenhe came acrossexamples of theconcept that were being used in theUnited Kingdom.

"There is a stigma that you always have to ask for what you need within our building," said Stewart.

"People are taking what they need."

Stewart saidit has been tough to keep the machine stocked. He said it's already been emptiedabout three or four times.

The shelter has run low on products to fill the vending machine, and are constantly looking for donations. Donations can be dropped off to 180 Henry Avenue.

A new fountain has also been installed to help cut-down on single-use plastic water bottles and the shelter is also seeking donations of containers to store water.