WESTERN MASS. – The 20th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will occur on April 24 at various locations in Hampshire and Franklin Counties from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event is used as an attempt to allow people to dispose of their unwanted drugs and prescription medicine.

According to Maria Sotolongo, director of drug diversion and treatment at Northwestern District Attorney’s Office in Northampton, the majority of the drop-off process in both counties has stayed the same, even despite COVID-19.

The one major change in Northampton is where the main drop-off section will be in the city. Instead of having it at John F. Kennedy Middle School, Sotolongo said that the new main drop-off center will be at Smith Vocational High School located at 80 Locus St.

“Usually people line up, they drive in, they drop off,” said Sotolongo. “We collect the medication, place it in the box, and we’re working in collaboration with the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration).”

There are currently 15 police departments throughout Franklin and Hampshire Counties that are registered as places where people can drop off their unwanted drugs, including Easthampton, Southampton, South Hadley, Williamsburg, Goshen and Worthington.  

“With regards to the COVID, we’re kind of running everything the same,” said Sotolongo, who added that over 3500 pounds of drugs were collected throughout both counties during last year’s event. “We’re hopeful that we’re going to get the same amount this year.”

Sotolongo explained that any type of medication will be accepted at these drop-off locations, whether they be vitamins, expired Tylenol, prescribed medication, etc. “We’re really open to whatever kind of medication you want to clear from your cabinets,” she said.

The goal at the Northwestern DA’s office, according to Sotolongo, is to fight off the opioid epidemic, and this day is being used as one way to achieve that goal. “I think this is a wonderful tool to use in helping individuals at home to clear a path for a better tomorrow for the younger generations,” she added.

To help fight the opioid epidemic, Sotolongo said that Northwestern’s District Attorney David Sullivan has been working with local police chiefs and the DEA to help cut the curve. The takeback day acts as an excellent opportunity for rural communities who do not usually have access to a close police station to drive up and drop off their unwanted drugs, according to Sotolongo.

“COVID came in and impacted a lot of different situations,” said Sotolongo. “But we’ve stayed committed  to still doing this particular part of the takeback.”

Hampshire and Franklin Counties have collected a little over 60,000 pounds of drugs since 2011, according to Sotolongo. “It’s been a blessing to these communities, because we’ve been able to help them get rid of it,” said Sotolongo. “[The takeback] enables individuals to find better resources to remove the medications from their home.”

There are also kiosks scattered throughout police stations in the two counties that collect these medications outside of just the takeback day. Because we are dealing with an opioid crisis, Sotolongo added that it is very important to take time to clear out medication drawers, and help out elderly who may have unwanted drugs, as well.

“Unfortunately, we have to do something,” said Sotolongo. “DA Sullivan is very passionate about this, and he wants to help our communities. The fact that we’ve collected over 60,000 pounds alone … it’s an amazing impact.”

For more information on where a specific location in your area may be, visit https://www.facebook.com/NorthwesternDADaveSullivan.