[Archived] SAPCA Celebrates Alexandria’s First Permanent Prescription Drug Drop-Off Box

Located at The Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray

For Immediate Release: January 8, 2018

On January 5, 2018, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held at The Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray. The event celebrated the first-ever permanent prescription drug drop-off box in the City of Alexandria. 

The drug drop-off box provides year-round access to safe drug disposal for all Alexandria residents.

The Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition (SAPCA), along with the Alexandria Police Department, Alexandria Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS), recognizes pharmacy co-owners Stacey Swartz and Barbara Hayward for taking this important community action.

This is a huge accomplishment and will aid efforts to reduce the amount of unwanted drugs in the City of Alexandria.

In the past year, Alexandria has held four Prescription Drug Take Back Days — the only city in the nation to host this many. In 2017, more than 1,000 pounds of drugs were collected. The addition of the permanent drop-off box will help address the current opioid crisis and keep Alexandria safe.

It is important that those in the community work together to keep their homes and streets safe. Any unwanted or expired medications should be disposed of properly – either at a prescription drug take back day or at the new drop-off box.

SAPCA is an alliance of 80 members whose mission is to engage the community in reducing youth substance use in Alexandria.