Drug Drop Off Scheduled for Oct. 29

The , the Police Department, the Story County Prevention Policy Board, and the Drug Enforcement Administration are sponsoring a community-wide Drug Drop Off from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 515 Clark Ave. Participants are asked to use the west parking lot to drop off their unused or expired tablets, capsules, and all other solid dosage forms of medication.

Addressing the availability and accessibility of substances are crucial factors in enhancing community safety for youth. Surveys show an increasing trend in abuse of over-the-counter and prescription substances among young people. Approximately six in 10 teens report prescription drugs are easier to obtain than illegal drugs, and that family medicine cabinets are the main source for acquiring prescription drugs.

The Oct. 29 event coordinates with Red Ribbon Week, which brings millions of people together to raise awareness regarding the need for alcohol, tobacco and other drug and violence prevention, early intervention, and treatment services. It is the largest prevention awareness campaign observed annually in the United States.

Those with questions should contact Erin Kennedy at (515) 233-3141 or at ekennedy@yss.ames.ia.us or Ames Police Officer Brad Baker at (515) 239-5432.