The city Department of Public Health recently reached its ambitious goal of distributing 1 million free condoms to Philadelphians in 2024. Since Jan. 1, condoms have been given out through Take Control Philly, the department’s distribution plan that includes online ordering and delivery by mail, grassroots efforts at events and support by community partners and teams at city health centers and Department of Public Health resource hubs. Charles Gregory Postell, Communications and Policy Coordinator for the Department of Public Health, ceremoniously presented the 1 millionth condom on Dec. 19 to Philadelphia Health Center 1, 1930 S. Broad St., as part of its biweekly condom order.
Focused on free condom distribution and sexual-wellness education, Take Control Philly aims to lower the rate of sexually transmitted diseases among Philadelphia youth ages 13 to 19. To further promote ongoing sexual and overall wellness, the initiative encourages people to stay on top of their sexual health by getting condoms — confidentially and at no cost — at participating Philadelphia health centers.
“That we distributed 1 million condoms before year-end speaks volumes to the importance of what the city and our partners are doing — Philadelphians are in need of free, accessible sexual health resources,” Postell said. “This is why, while we are proud to have achieved our goal, we now move forward in continuing the initiative. The more we can ensure continual access to our free resources, the greater impact we can make motivating behavior change that promotes ongoing sexual wellness. A healthier Philly that can engage safely and confidently in sexual activities is a Philly that will thrive on every level.”
When used properly and consistently, condoms are said to be highly effective in preventing STDs and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Reports reveal that since the HIV crisis elevated condom use in 1990, the practice has prevented about 117 million new HIV infections worldwide.
Condoms are distributed in kits that include water-based lubricant, instructions for proper use and a list of the city’s sexual health centers. Condoms can be ordered at no cost online, with discreet delivery/packaging and options for teens to create a custom condom order. There are also more than 100 walk-up condom distribution sites citywide — at universities, wellness resource centers, hospitals, bars and clubs and nonprofit organizations — and dozens of Philadelphia schools have installed condom dispensers. In addition to distributing condoms and condom kits, many community partners offer educational materials to elevate awareness of the risks of STIs/STDs.
“Health Center 1 is 100% committed to this innovative initiative, which helps to thwart the various challenges that STIs have on the Philadelphia community.” said Fatima Thompson, Health Care Coordinator, Philadelphia Health Center 1. “The city’s condom distribution program takes a remarkably proactive and fresh approach to preventing the spread of STIs in our community. We are providing access to information, condoms and the support they need to take control of their ongoing sexual wellness.”
More information about the Department of Public Health’s Take Control Philly initiative for teens is available at TakeControlPhilly.org. ••
