The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Department of Health, and TN Together are teaming up to encourage participation in the upcoming National Drug Take-Back Day on October 24, 2026. The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medication. This is the first year Grundy County will be holding Drug Take-Back events at two locations, October 24 from 10:002:00 at Rock Creek pharmacy in Coalmont and at the same time at Roundhouse Park in Tracy City.

Belinda Morgan, Prevention Coordinator of the Grundy Safe Communities Coalition says, “We’ve been doing this for more than a decade, supported by Tracy City Police Department and Grundy County Sherriff department…to get rid of medication not needed so it doesn’t fall in the hands of children or others. We’re grateful for the support of the community in keeping everybody safe.” Morgan recounts the most successful takeback has been two years ago, over 251 pounds in three barrels collected and points out that when the holidays arrive and family comes to visit, especially with children, it is not safe to have unneeded medicine in the house. In addition to safely disposing of expired, unneeded or unwanted prescription and over-thecounter medications, they will be providing overdose education and training on site, with Naloxone available for loved ones at risk of overdose and medication safety and lockboxes available while supplies last.

Accepted Items

• Liquid medications (in leak-proof containers)

• Medicated ointment, lotions, or drops

• Pills in any packaging (glass bottles, plastic containers, plastic bags, etc.)

• Over-the-counter medications Liquid medications (in leak-proof containers)

• Pet medications

Prohibited Items

• Blood sugar equipment

• Sharps/needles*

• Illegal drugs & narcotics (police will accept these items if placed in the container)

• Thermometers*

• IV bags

• Bloody or infectious waste

• Personal care products (shampoo, lotions, etc) safe At-Home Disposal