State Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano and Senator Dean Murray teamed up recently to host a “Shed the Meds” event at the Longwood Public Library in Middle Island, offering residents a safe and convenient way to dispose of unwanted or expired medications.
The event was held in partnership with the Deputy Sheriffs of Suffolk County, who were on hand to collect medications and ensure their proper disposal in accordance with public safety guidelines.
“Shed the Meds” is a public health initiative designed to combat the growing problem of prescription drug misuse and help prevent environmental contamination caused by flushing or improperly discarding medications. By providing secure drop-off points in local communities, the program helps reduce the risk of drug abuse, especially among teens and young adults who may gain access to unsecured medications at home.
“These events are simple but powerful,” said Assemblyman DeStefano. “They give residents a chance to clean out their medicine cabinets while protecting their families and communities from the dangers of unused prescriptions.”
Senator Murray echoed those sentiments, adding, “Programs like Shed the Meds are a critical part of our broader effort to combat the opioid crisis, support public safety, and protect our environment. We’re grateful to the Suffolk County Deputy Sheriffs and the Longwood Library for making this possible.”
The Longwood Library location saw a steady stream of residents stopping by to discreetly and securely drop off medications. Events like these raise awareness about the potential dangers of leftover prescriptions and foster a sense of community action toward shared safety goals.
The success of this latest collection highlights the importance of continuing outreach and education around prescription drug safety and the need for ongoing collaboration between lawmakers, law enforcement, and local institutions.