Submitted by Allison Behnke
(April 4, 2025) — Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services (HKYFS), in partnership with the Haddam-Killingworth Community Coalition, Connecticut State Police, Nutmeg Pharmacy, and Killingworth Family Pharmacy, is proud to participate the DEA National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
This event provides a safe, convenient, and responsible way for residents to dispose of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, controlled substances, and used vapes—no questions asked. Drop-off locations will be available at Nutmeg Pharmacy in Higganum and Killingworth Family Pharmacy from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Minimizing access to opioids starts at home. Dispose of unused medications by obtaining a drug deactivation pouch from HKYFS, attending a “Drug Take-Back Day,” or using the medication drop box at Connecticut State Police Troop F in Westbrook. Most important, talk to your child about the importance of remaining substance-free and about the dangers of taking medications that aren’t prescribed by a trusted medical professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. Getting trained to administer Narcan is another good step in saving lives.
Free Narcan Available
HKYFS has Narcan available to any community member who would like to learn to administer this life saving medication. Our Prevention Coordinator can also offer trainings for businesses, organizations, and groups across the community. Please reach out to preventioncoordinator@hkyfs.org to receive hands-on instruction on how to administer Naloxone, a life-saving tool in reversing opioid overdoses.
Prevention Resources
Throughout the event, attendees will also have access to additional prevention resources:
- Free Lock Bags for securing medications at home
- Deterra Drug Deactivation Bags for safe, at-home disposal of medications
These resources will be available while supplies last on a first-come, first-served basis.
Join us in taking an active step toward safeguarding our community by clearing out your medicine cabinets and learning valuable tools to prevent drug misuse and overdose.
For more information about DEA “Drug Take Back Day,” HKYFS prevention programs, or about the HK Community Coalition, please contact Prevention and Youth Program Coordinator Kyana Anderson at PreventionCoordinator@hkyfs.org.
