Rite Aid Foundation launches KidCents Safe Medication Disposal Program

CAMP HILL, Pa. — The Rite Aid Foundation announced Wednesday the rollout of its KidCents Safe Medication Disposal Program, a new program focused on reducing drug accessibility, medication misuse and accidental poisoning among children and adolescents.



"Through KidCents and by working with local law enforcement agencies, we've come up with a solution to help address drug abuse and accidental poisonings, both of which pose a serious threat to the health, safety and well-being of our nation's young people," stated Jocelyn Konrad, EVP pharmacy Rite Aid. "Initial feedback from law enforcement agencies in our pilot markets has been positive and we continue to see strong interest in our program. We look forward to partnering with law enforcement agencies to bring disposal units to the communities we serve, truly delivering on The Rite Aid Foundation's mission of improving the health and wellbeing of kids."



"The cycle of addiction and drug abuse is heartbreaking. It's something I continue to hear about as I meet with people all across Eastern Washington," said Washington state Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-5th District, as part of Rite Aid's unveiling ceremony held Wednesday. "No one can fight this battle alone-nor should they have to. Solving this problem in our community will take the collaboration of local government, law enforcement, and outreach and advocacy groups. I applaud The Rite Aid Foundation for developing the KidCents Safe Medication Disposal Program and bringing it here to Spokane to help fight back against addiction and drug abuse in our community."



As part of The Rite Aid Foundation's initial rollout of the KidCents Safe Medication Disposal Program, the Spokane Police Department received three medication disposal units. The units are available during business hours for people to safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medications that are no longer needed or have expired.



"Enhancing community safety has been a critical focus, and with Chief Meidl, we've worked hard to improve the quality of life for Spokane residents," said Spokane Mayor David Condon. "The fact that The Rite Aid Foundation chose Spokane to officially launch its Safe Medication Disposal Program is a testament to the tremendous progress we've made so far in making Spokane safer, smarter and healthier."

 

"Providing our residents with places to easily and safely dispose of unused medication is one more way we can fight drug abuse in our city and ultimately, make Spokane a safer place," added Spokane Police Chief Craig Meidl. "We are proud to partner with KidCents and The Rite Aid Foundation to create a safer environment for our children, families and community."



Currently, more than 40 law enforcement agencies across the country participate in the KidCents Safe Medication Disposal Program, with 76 units available in 14 states.



Funded by The Rite Aid Foundation's KidCents program, the program provides law enforcement agencies in communities served by Rite Aid with free medication disposal units for individuals to safely dispose of expired or unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medications.



Any law enforcement agency located in a community served by Rite Aid can now apply to participate in the KidCents Safe Medication Disposal Program. Selected law enforcement agencies will receive high-quality, stainless steel medication disposal units to keep in their locations, as well as initial start-up supplies. In addition, shipping, delivery, and installation is free. To apply, visit www.riteaid.com/meddisposal.