Hazardous Waste
VBCDHD offers safe disposal of medications through Red Med Box and sharps collection sites, preventing drug abuse, needle injuries, and environmental damage.
Safe Disposal of Medications & Sharps
Van Buren and Cass County residents have two secure options for safely disposing of unused medications and used sharps like needles and syringes, helping to protect the environment and community health.
Red Med Box Program
Accepted Items
- Pills
- Liquids (in original containers)
Not Accepted
- Inhalers
- Needles/Sharps
Drop-Off Locations
Sharps Collection Program
Residents can safely dispose of used needles, syringes, and lancets at Van Buren/Cass District Health Department offices.
Please bring sharps in a tightly sealed, puncture-proof container such as:
- Medical sharps container
- Heavy-duty plastic detergent jugs
- Metal or hard plastic coffee cans
Needle & Sharps Disposal
2026 Needle and Sharps Collection Dates – Van Buren/Cass Counties
Safely dispose of used needles, syringes, and sharps at our official collection sites in Lawrence (Van Buren County) and Dowagiac (Cass County).
2026 Collection Dates & Locations
Van Buren County – Lawrence Office
- Friday, March 20, 2026
- Friday, June 12, 2026
- Friday, September 4, 2026
- Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Cass County – Dowagiac Office
- Tuesday, March 17, 2026
- Tuesday, June 9, 2026
- Tuesday, September 1, 2026
- Tuesday, November 24, 2026
Collection Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:00 NOON
What You Need to Know
- Proof of residency is required
- Limit: 2 sharps containers per household
Questions?
Call VBCDHD at (269) 621-3143 for more information.
Resources
- Van Buren Conservation District Recycling Program. Learn of upcoming events, recycling tips, and other services.
- Michigan State University Extension (MSU Extension).
- Find Harm Reduction Services Near You.
- Find helpful treatment resources.
- Help for substance use, problem gambling, or mental health.
- Find out if your medication a controlled substance.
