Utica, New York (October 2025) – The Center for Family Life and Recovery (CFLR) is proud to announce its Fall Take Back Day. This initiative, in collaboration with the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Oneida County Opioid Task Force, Oneida County Health Department, and Utica police departments, provides a convenient way for residents to “Take Back” unused or expired prescription medications, including sharps and pet medications. Free HOPE bags full of resources will also be given away at each event.
This drive-through event makes it easier for people to dispose of these medications safely and securely without having to leave their cars. This event is part of CFLR’s Oneida County Prevention Services program which aims to reduce the number of opioids available in our communities while also reducing the risk of misuse and abuse. Present at this event will be CFLR’s Narcan trainers as well as Deterra bags which are drug deactivation bags distributed in previous Take Back Days.
Take Back Day is an important opportunity for our community to come together in promoting safety and wellness. Improperly disposed of medications and syringes can pose serious risks to our families, neighbors, and environment. CFLR’s Co-Director of Prevention Innovation, DeQuan Watson, expressed, “This annual event provides a safe, secure, and confidential way to discard unused or expired medications – helping prevent misuse and keeping harmful substances out of our homes and waterways. Let’s all do our part to keep our community safe, healthy, and strong!”
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 70% of all opioid overdoses can be traced back to prescription drugs. So far, CFLR’s drive-through take back events have helped keep these dangerous drugs out of our communities and away from those who may misuse them. CFLR’s Executive Director, Cassandra Sheets, said, “We are so pleased that this program has been so successful! People are recognizing the danger that these medications pose if not disposed of properly and we are grateful for their participation.”
The Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. will host Drug Take Back Day this Fall:
Date: October 25th, 2025
Location: 321 Main Street Utica, NY 13501
Time: 10am – 2pm
Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. is proud to be the area’s leading expert in advocacy, prevention, counseling, and employee assistance programs. Along with supporting individuals and families struggling with addiction and recovery, mental health, and behavioral issues, CFLR’s goal is to inspire hope,
