Tomah VA Participates in DEA Drug Take Back Day and Helps Local Communities Stay Safer
By Amanda Batchko, Public Affairs Specialist/Outreach Coordinator
On October 24, 2025, the Tomah VA Medical Center actively participated in the national DEA Drug Take Back Day, an annual event dedicated to helping Veterans and the local community safely dispose of unused and unwanted medications, thus promoting a safer and healthier environment.
The event took place at the Tomah VA in front of Building 407, where participants were invited to drop off their medications. Upon arrival, they were greeted by VA police and a VA pharmacist, who ensured a secure and smooth handover process. The presence of professional staff provided participants with confidence that their disposed medications were being handled safely and correctly.
This year’s event saw a total of 11 participants who collectively donated 20-25 pounds of unused and unwanted medications. Attendees expressed their gratitude for the availability of this event, appreciating the opportunity to safely dispose of their medications and prevent potential misuse or environmental harm.
The success of this event was made possible through a coordinated team effort by the VA staff. Courtney Putz, the Chief of Pharmacy, led the initiative, managing and overseeing the proper collection of medications. Officer Brendan Coleman played a crucial role in ensuring a secure environment for all attendees, further enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the event.
The community’s participation and the concerted efforts of the VA staff significantly contributed to the success of this essential public health service.
The DEA Drug Take Back Day at Tomah VA Medical Center is a testament to the facility's ongoing commitment to fostering a safer and healthier community, highlighting the vital role they play in public health initiatives.