In collaboration with the DEA national takeback event, Buffalo County hosted their fall takeback event on Oct 24th. Over 268 pounds of unused or expired medication was brought back to be disposed of. The Positive Pressure Task Force uses this event to educate the community of the harms of unused medication
Prescription drug overdose is the top cause of accidental deaths in the US, surpassing car accidents, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Two thirds of Buffalo County teens that use drugs, say they get them from their friends and family without them knowing. “We were excited that people still came out and disposed of their medication. People have been more homebound because of this pandemic, so it is more important than ever that we stay vigiliant in keeping our homes and community safe safe from drug abuse or misuse,” said Wanda Fedorchick, Substance Abuse Prevention Coordinator BCCP.
Partners and volunteers at the event were: CHI Health Good Samaritan, Buffalo County Community Partners, Buffalo County Sherrif’s Office, Kearney Police Department, and the Kearney Elks Lodge.