PHILADELPHIA, PA — In honor of National Condom Month, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health is drawing attention to its two innovative programs aimed at promoting safe sex and reducing the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintended pregnancies.
The two initiatives, named Take Control Philly and Philly Keep On Loving, are making strides in addressing barriers to condom availability and accessibility. In the last year alone, these programs successfully distributed nearly 738,000 condoms citywide.
Take Control Philly, launched in 2011, was designed to combat rising STD rates among Philadelphia’s youth aged 13-19. The program allows teens to customize their condom orders online, choosing from a variety of styles including flared, ribbed, extra-large, latex-free, and female, or insertive, condoms.
Each order, which can be placed twice a month, comes with 10 condoms or two female condoms, water-based lubricant, instructions on correct condom use, and information on the city’s sexual health centers.
Expanding access further, the Department of Public Health started installing condom dispensers in Philadelphia public schools in 2012. This initiative enables students at all Philadelphia public high schools to discreetly pick up condoms from the school nurse as needed.
Philly Keep On Loving, introduced in 2022, provides another platform for residents to learn about sexual health resources and order free condoms online. Like Take Control Philly, this program offers a selection of Trojan condoms, female condoms, and lubricant, along with usage instructions.
Apart from online ordering, Philadelphia residents can also pick up free condoms at Health Center 1, partner organizations, and the Health Department Resource Hubs. Currently, there are 128 walk-up sites across the city, encompassing universities, wellness resource centers, hospitals, bars and clubs, non-profit organizations, and more.
These initiatives underscore Philadelphia’s commitment to sexual health education and resource provision. By providing easily accessible and free condoms, the city is empowering its residents to make informed decisions about their sexual health while also working to decrease the rates of STDs and unintended pregnancies.
As we observe National Condom Month, it’s crucial to remember that these programs are not just about distributing condoms—they’re about promoting responsible choices, fostering open conversations about sexual health, and ultimately, creating a healthier Philadelphia.
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