Spring is the perfect time to clean out your home medicine cabinet. Proper disposal prevents unintended use and keeps the water supply clean.
The public can dispose of medications on Saturday, April 28 from 10 am – 2 pm at five Lee’s Summit locations. Unwanted prescription, over-the-counter and animal medications will be accepted. Needles and inhalers will not be accepted. The service is anonymous and free.
Sites include the Lee’s Summit Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, both hospitals and Places Restaurant at John Knox Village. Saint Luke’s East and Lee’s Summit Medical Center will offer drive-through service so residents don’t have to leave their vehicle.
Since 2010, Lee’s Summit residents have properly disposed of more than 12,000 pounds of medication. The local event is sponsored by Lee’s Summit CARES, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Lee’s Summit Police Department, and Lee’s Summit Water Department.
Law enforcement officers will be on hand to accept medication at these Lee’s Summit locations:
• Jackson County Sheriff’s Office: 4001 NE Lakewood Court
• Lee’s Summit Police Department: 10 NE Tudor Road
• Lee’s Summit Medical Center ER Entrance: 2100 SE Blue Parkway
• Saint Luke’s East Diagnostic Center: 100 NE Saint Luke’s Blvd.
• Places Restaurant at John Knox Village: 1001 NW Chipman Rd
If residents can’t participate on April 28, they can drop off medications year-round at permanent medication drop boxes in the lobbies of the Police and Sheriff’s offices and in the Emergency Rooms of both Lee’s Summit hospitals.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), unused and expired medicines in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. The DEA cites studies indicating that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.
Lee’s Summit CARES is a nonprofit community coalition that focuses on youth substance use, bullying and suicide prevention, parenting education and character development for youth and families of the Greater Lee’s Summit area. To schedule a speaker or make a tax-deductible donation, visit LSCares.org or call (816) 347-3298.
