Bringing Care and Community to You: Community Care Vending Machine Health Hub

The barriers to care are immense, they can be financial, mental, and even physical. Acknowledging these challenges are the first step to combating them. Our goal to achieve equity and support Richmonders in leading healthy lives; we decided to bring the care to them. Strategically positioning ourselves at a local bus stop to distribute essential care items like hand sanitizer as well as health and healthcare information we met our community where they are!

How We Got Started

Our goal in this initiative was to provide support for those in need, but even more so to meet those needs wherever we could. Physical distance is often an obstacle to receiving care and resources. We wanted to be present in the community, not only to show support but to provide essential daily health items. For those who utilize public transport, it can be a challenge to make the time, or find a location to receive care. In choosing a prominent and highly trafficked bus stop, we were able to make the most impact in our community.

Partnership

Our initiative was focused on helping as many people as possible, a shared goal between ourselves and our partner Sentara Health. Our collaboration with sentara Health made this event a success as they were able to provide educational resources and everyday essentials.

Partnering with Sentara was about more than providing physical resources, their support in bettering the community was underscored by the information they provide to the community. We were able to provide useful resources and knowledge to those who visited the Health Hub, getting people started in their journey to healthy living.

The Impact of the Health Hub

In choosing bus stop # 2644, we put ourselves in the heart of the community surrounding Sentara's Community Care Clinic. Positioning ourselves to interact with as many people as possible, creating connection and providing support for visitors. These interactions allowed us to provide support both physically and emotionally, connecting with each passerby.

Reflecting on Our Mission

This initiative reaches the crux of our mission: connecting those in need with essential streams of support—whether that’s access to healthcare, education, or community resources. At Newviews, we understand that barriers can’t always be overcome by individuals alone. That’s why we’re committed to meeting people where they are, both physically and emotionally. Looking ahead, we aim to expand this mobile, adaptable approach—bringing vital services directly to neighborhoods, ensuring that care and connection are never out of reach.

Looking Forward

Each initiative we complete is a step down the long road of achieving equity in our community and the world at large. We pride ourselves on the positive impact each initiative creates, pushing to do better with each project. Our work will never end, and we strive to put our best foot forward each and every day.

At Newviews Productions, through Newviews Connects, we remain dedicated to telling the stories that matter, not just with our cameras and marketing concepts but with our actions and initiatives. We look forward to another year of storytelling, community action, and meaningful impact.