Detroit Catholic Central High School in Novi said Thursday, Oct. 29, that its annual Drug Take-Back Day collected an estimated 12 pounds of unwanted medications.
The collection took place Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., according to the school’s announcement. Community members could turn in unused or expired medications for safe disposal.
The school estimates its take-back efforts have collected more than 60 pounds over the past four years. Last year’s event brought in about 15 pounds.
Student Jonathon Creen, his father, Dave, and school nurse Laura Helm led this year’s collection. Supporters included DEA agent Brandon Brophy, retired police officer Brian Woloski and volunteers Kim and Glen from the South Lyon Community Coalition, according to the school.
The school accepted several types of human and veterinary medications, including pills, capsules and patches. Its collection excluded liquids and sharps, such as needles, syringes and lancets.
Disposal options beyond the event
Catholic Central’s collection coincided with the 31st National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, organized by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
In an advance announcement, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy said more than 4,400 collection sites were planned nationwide for Oct. 24. The agency said removing unwanted medications from homes reduces the risk of misuse or accidental ingestion.
The DEA holds Take Back Day twice a year. People who missed the event can also use permanent disposal locations.
The DEA says many police departments maintain permanent drop boxes and that pharmacies, hospitals and other businesses offer year-round disposal options. Residents can find information through the DEA’s medication-disposal resources.
