The Deptford Township Police Department in partnership with The Gloucester County Division of Human and Disability Services and the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office will be hosting Operation Take Back on Saturday, October 24.
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Operation Take Back will provide an opportunity for residents of Gloucester County to safely dispose of prescription drugs in an effort to prevent substance abuse and overdose.
“This event is a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs,” said Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger.
“We need to keep unused or expired medications out of the wrong hands, so please bring them down to the drop off location on Oct. 24,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Frank J. DiMarco, liaison to the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office.
During the 2019 National Take Back Day, 882,919 pounds of unused and expired medication was collected for proper disposal.
This event is part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. It is estimated that approximately 9.9 million Americans misuse controlled prescription drugs.
“National Take Back Day provides hundreds of people the opportunity to clean out their medicine cabinets and dispose of prescriptions in a safe and anonymous manner. We encourage Gloucester County residents to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Freeholder Jim Jefferson, liaison to the Division of Human and Disability Services.
Collection will take place at the Deptford Township Municipal Building, 1101 Cooper Street, Deptford, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Only pills and other solids, such as patches can be brought to the collection sites for disposal. Liquids and needles will not be accepted. Due to COVID-19 anyone dropping of prescription medication to be disposed of must wear a mask as well as follow the guidelines for safe distancing.
For more information, please visit www.gloucestercountynj.gov or call the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office at (856) 384-5500.
