Senator Fred Akshar Hosts “Shed the Meds” Event & Narcan Training Event in Norwich

(NORWICH, NY) Senator Fred Akshar joined local community leaders and law enforcement for a “Shed the Meds” prescription turn-in event on Saturday at Norwich City Hall. Volunteers collected over 87 pounds of prescription medication, with an estimated street value of over $20,000 worth of opioids.

In addition to dropping off old prescription pills, community members participated in free Narcan training, which was provided by the Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP). Upon completion of their training, each trainee received a free Narcan kit.

“We are facing an opioid crisis that requires the entire community's involvement and engagement,” said Senator Fred Akshar. “As a former member of law enforcement, there is no better partnership than one between a community and those serving to protect and keep that community safe. “Shed the Meds” helps keep drugs off the street and out of the wrong hands.”

Police Chief Rodney Marsh said "We can't thank Senator Akshar, the Chenango Health Network, and STAP enough for partnering with us. The Norwich Police Department is committed to utilizing every resource and opportunity to combat the drug epidemic, and it is events like Shed the Meds that create opportunities for education and awareness. With the help and support of our community members and local officials, we are able to keep our residents and community safer and healthier.”

This event continues Senator Akshar’s commitment to fighting the heroin epidemic – as a Co-chair of the Senate Heroin Task Force and passing legislation to enhance prevention, treatment and recovery for heroin addiction. Over the past two years, Akshar's Shed the Meds events across the 52nd Senate District collected over 600 lbs. of prescription drugs, getting an estimated street value of $200,000 worth of drugs off the street, according to local law enforcement officials.