The Rockwood School District’s Drug-Free Coalition is partnering with four area police departments to host two expanded Prescription Drug “Take Back” Programs, Sat., Feb. 20 and Sat., April 17 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.  Ballwin, Ellisville, Eureka and St. Louis County Police will be on hand to collect unwanted prescription medication from your medicine cabinet.

“It is important that we keep prescription drugs out of the hands of our youth,” says Ken McManus, Rockwood’s Drug-Free Coalition coordinator.  “Federal studies show that adolescent prescription medication abuse is advancing at a faster rate than marijuana and alcohol combined.” McManus noted.

The “Take Back” events are being held at the following locations:

Ballwin Police Department,  300 Park Dr in Ballwin

Ellisville Police Department, 37 Weis Ave. in Ellisville

Eureka Police Department, 120 City Hall Dr. in Eureka

Clarkson Valley City Hall located within the Fru-Con Center, 15933 Clayton Rd. in Ballwin with St. Louis County Police

Fenton City Hall, 625 New Smizer Mill Rd. in Fenton with St. Louis County Police

The events are being held to increase awareness of prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse issues facing our area’s youth and help eliminate prescription drugs that are no longer being used.  This program will also provide a place for residents to safely and legally dispose of prescription drugs that are no longer needed.

“Due to the success of our initial ‘Take Back’ with the Eureka Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) allowed us to expand the program into additional communities,” McManus says.

The Drug-Free Coalition provides leadership, education and resources to prevent and address substance abuse and unhealthy choices among Rockwood students.

If you would like more information about Rockwood’s Drug-Free Coalition call (636) 938-2363 or go to www.rockwoodcoalition.org.