Portland’s SafeBlocks program collected more than 100 pounds of prescription drugs at its takeback event to promote safe disposal and prevent drug abuse.
The city of Portland’s SafeBlocks program collected more than 100 pounds of prescription drugs during Saturday’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event.
The SafeBlocks program has been working with the Drug Enforcement Administration on takeback events since 2010.
“When we do these events we also take the opportunity to educate folks on how to properly dispose of prescription medication,” Rocio Garcia, SafeBlocks program coordinator. “Don’t flush it. Don’t throw it in the trash.”
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Jacqueline Mandell was one of the residents who participated in the drug take back.
“Knowing that there is a safe way to protect our water, our animals, our land, I think that’s really important and I am so grateful,” Mandell said.
This was Mandell’s first time participating in the takeback event.
“For a long time I’d had these medicines I knew were expired or old COVID tests that are expired and I’ve always wanted to do this,” Mandell said.
Whether it was a handful of unused or expired prescription drugs or bags full, each drop-off makes the community safer.
Garcia said the event also helps raise awareness about drug abuse prevention.
“This is also a way that we can talk about what can happen if someone else uses your drugs and what are the risks of that or if you leave drugs low enough for children to access,” Garcia said.
The next takeback event will be held in the spring.