STE. GENEVIEVE, Mo. – The Ste. Genevieve Community Services Forum conducted two drive-thru drug takeback events Saturday, April 22 with resounding success, resulting in 105 pounds of prescription and over-the-counter medications collected.
Forum secretary and Nutrition and Health Specialist Estrella Carmona expressed her gratitude, stating that “this was the biggest impact we’ve seen from these drive-thru drug takebacks. The program shifted to this format due to COVID, and we hope to maintain it for years to come.”
Carmona coordinated the event, but said its success wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers.
“They play a vital role in our community, both through their professional work and their voluntary service,” Carmona said. “Despite having busy weekends, they selflessly took the time to help our community dispose of unwanted medications in a safe and responsible way.”
When medications are not properly disposed of, they can pose a serious threat to public health and safety. Drug take back events help to prevent drug abuse and addiction, reduce the risk of accidental poisoning, and protect the environment by keeping medications out of the water supply.
The volunteers who participated in the event included Deputy Jason Finch (sheriff’s office), Commissioner Karen Stuppy, Community Services Forum Member and Advocate Bill Kraemer, City Administrator Happy Welch, Officer Steve Poole (city police), and Emergency Management Director Felix Meyer.