Kroger Health to Lead Community Efforts for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on October 25, 2025
On October 25, 2025, Kroger Health will collaborate with the Cardinal Health Foundation to host the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, allowing community members to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications safely. This initiative is part of a decade-long effort aimed at promoting health and safety within homes and the environment from the potential hazards of improper disposal.
According to officials, the event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at numerous participating local pharmacies. Individuals can bring their medications, which will be collected by law enforcement professionals stationed outside the stores. It's important to note that while pills will be accepted, disposal protocols for liquids, gels, and patches may differ based on location. This program emphasizes making it more convenient for individuals to take responsible actions regarding their medications.
"We're proud to play a part in making the safe choice the easy choice," said Colleen Lindholz, President of Kroger Health. "National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers our communities a convenient option to discard unused or expired medications, fostering a healthier environment at home and aligning with our commitment to better health outcomes for our customers."
In alignment with these efforts, Jessie Cannon, President of the Cardinal Health Foundation, reinforced the necessity of educating the public about medication safety. "Our support of Kroger Health on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a secure method for disposing of unwanted medications while promoting community education on the importance of safe medication practices."
Kroger Health has been pivotal in organizing drug take back events across the United States since 2018. With more than 220,000 pounds of medications collected over these years, the initiative has attracted over 86,000 participants, showcasing its significant impact on the well-being of communities.
Moreover, Kroger Health boasts a vast network as part of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), a leading retail healthcare organization in America. With over 17 million patients served annually through its Family of Pharmacies, covering more than 2,200 locations nationwide, Kroger Health's mission is to improve health accessibility and quality through various healthcare services. Its team comprises an extensive network of 23,000 healthcare practitioners, including pharmacists, nurse practitioners, and registered dietitians. This presents an integrated approach to health and wellness, incorporating the notion of 'food as medicine' to prevent disease and enhance community health.
To access more information regarding the specific drug take back locations and services, interested individuals can visit the Kroger Health website. This initiative reflects a growing dedication to not only disposing of drugs properly but also to empowering consumers with vital knowledge concerning medication management and safety. It underscores the critical intersection of public health and community engagement, driving home the necessity for safe medication practices within everyday life.
In summary, on October 25, 2025, Kroger Health and the Cardinal Health Foundation will offer a crucial service to their communities, promoting safer practices and sustainability through this drug take back initiative. Their continued efforts reinforce the importance of safe medicine disposal and its far-reaching benefits for society and the environment.