U.K.'s Free Vending Machine for the Homeless

The U.K. is offering a free vending machine to the homeless, allowing for a one-size-doesn't-fit-all system. 

Up to 100 homeless people are able to choose three items a day, including socks, sanitary towels and sandwiches, courtesy of the Nottingham charity Action Hunger. Right now there is only one machine, but the charity hopes to roll them out throughout Britain. 

The way it works is that a traceable key card is distributed at shelters in person, and the charity will be able to evaluate who is choosing which items and use those metrics to refine the program. 

Charity trustee Huzaifah Khaled, who believes the machine is the first of its kind, said, "We chose Nottingham because it's the city that I grew up in and have a deep affinity for, but we do plan on installing [a vending machine] in Manchester, then London and Birmingham."

It's a very smart idea that not only helps solve the needs of this population, but allows them dignity to select the foods and other items they need rather than just a shelter treating everyone as if they all have the same needs. 

Editor's note: According to Action Hunger, a version of this project is expected to open shortly in New York City.