Duane Hicks
The local seniors’ coalition recently wrapped up its fourth-annual “Medicine Cabinet Cleanout Contest,” once again seeing a positive response from district residents.
The contest wrapped up April 17 and public health educator Becky Holden, with the Northwestern Health Unit, said a total of 53 people participated, bringing in about 40 pounds of medication to the six pharmacies that served as drop-off locations.
“On behalf of the seniors’ coalition, we really appreciate the support and efforts of the six pharmacies that participated–Safeway Pharmacy, Clinic Pharmasave, Pharmasave, Wal-Mart Pharmacy, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Emo Drugs,” Holden noted.
Every person who turned in medication during the contest was entered into a draw. Six winners—one from each participating pharmacy—then were randomly drawn.
They received $25 gift certificates purchased from the respective pharmacy.
The purpose of the contest is to encourage people to safely dispose of their medicine so that it’s not used after its best before date, used by someone who’s not supposed to take it, or improperly goes into the environment.
“It is important to remember to look for expiry dates on medications and dispose of them safely throughout the year, and definitely take time at least once a year to clean out their medicine cabinet,” Holden stressed.
“And if they have questions about their medications to take time to speak with their pharmacist,” she added.
The seniors’ coalition, which meets every other month, always is looking for new membership from community partners as well as residents.
If anyone is interested in getting involved with the seniors’ coalition or its activities, contact Holden at 274-9827 ext. 239.
