East Bay Regional Coalition’s DEA Drug Take Back Day

East Bay, RI – Did you know that 2/3 of young adults who report misuse of prescription meds are getting them from family and friends? This is why DEA Drug Take Back Day is important and helps keep our communities safe! On Saturday, April 26th, East Providence, Barrington, Warren and Bristol, along with their local police departments, hosted DEA Drug Take Back Day, where community members stopped by and safely disposed of medications.

The purpose of Drug Take Back Day is not only to give people the opportunity to dispose of medications, but is to help lessen the supply of unwanted or expired medications in our communities. Having fewer medications (especially prescription) in our community decreases the chance of someone misusing or accidentally ingesting them. On this Take Back Day, the East Bay collected a total of 137.4lbs of medication, making up 13.8% of the total weight collected throughout Rhode Island. Lock bags were also given out as a free resource to those who stopped by to keep medications stored away safely.

Although Drug Take Back Day is only twice a year, the opportunity to request a lock bag and dispose of medication safely doesn’t end! Bristol, East Providence and Barrington all have 24/7 medication disposal boxes that are available for year-round use. Lock bags can also be requested year round and are an easily obtainable resource that you can get from either the EBRC or any local coalition. To find your nearest East Bay 24/7 medication disposal box or request a free lock bag, visit www.eastbayprevention.org/drug-safety. 

Are you interested in getting involved in our next drug take back event? We have four local and one regional coalition that meet monthly to address prevention and promote mental health. We would love to welcome more community members to help us with this important work! For more information email e.bayprevention@gmail.com. 

The East Bay Regional Coalition is one of seven community coalitions funded by the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities, & Hospitals. It is composed of members from municipal prevention coalitions and other community stakeholders from Barrington, Bristol, East Providence, and Warren. The Coalition views prevention through a broad lens that accounts for similarities and differences between cities and towns, incorporates health promotion and substance misuse prevention strategies across the lifespan, and coordinates media and events that endeavor to increase collaboration and sustain prevention activities across the region. Contact us at 401-247-1900 or at www.eastbayprevention.org.