Jackson County Prevention Partnership one of multiple drug coalitions across the region hosting a drug takeback this Saturday.
Project Director Nora Anderson said the DEA started drug takeback days in 2010 in an attempt to fight the drug overdose epidemic. She said the day serves as a reminder to the public to get rid of old medications to help prevent drug misuse.
“One of the most common points of access that youth cite for where they get prescription drugs that they use illicitly is from the home,” Anderson said. “Either from their own home or the home of a friend or family member. And that doesn’t even get into accidental overdoses.”
Anderson said the community members can participate in drug take-back day by bringing any used or old over-the-counter or prescription medicine in a sealed container to the Gainesboro Save A Lot or to Dodson Branch School. She said they are not accepting needles, illegal drugs, IV bags, or any bloody or hazardous materials.
There will also be drug takebacks hosted by the Power of Putnam, Alexandria City Hall, the Smithville Police Department, and more.
To find a local takeback event, visit tntogether.com/takebackday