The Rx Abuse Leadership Initiative (RALI) today announced a donation of $4,000 and 4,000 safe disposal kits to the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation (SAAF). These resources will allow SAAF to work with the Tucson community to safely dispose of unused medications.

RALI, an organization dedicated to fighting the opioid epidemic throughout Arizona and across the country, is working with SAAF in growing the available resources for those fighting drug addiction.  SAAF currently has several prevention programs operating throughout southern Arizona that provide a supportive, educational environment in which harm reduction & empowerment can be effective.

“This donation of safe disposal kits will allow the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation (SAAF) clients to do their part in making sure that old medications are not available for misuse or environmental contamination,” said Jamie Dromgoole-Hernandez, SAAF’s Director of Clinical and Prevention Services. “Proper disposal of prescription medications is important for the community and environment, and we are proud to be able to help do our part to safeguard our clients and community.”

“Today’s grant and donation will strengthen Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation’s efforts fighting the opioid epidemic – and we’re grateful for RALI’s leadership in continuing its tireless work in keeping Arizonans safe from the risk of substance abuse,” said Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema.

The funds will help SAAF be able to purchase critical supplies to help ensure they can deliver crucial care to those they serve. SAAF recently opened a new clinic (SAAF Health) that prioritizes servicing the LGBTQ+ community with affirming care as well as serving other marginalized communities with free services. “Without community partners who support us with this type of funding we would not be able support those most marginalized by society,” said Monique Vallery, SAAF’s Director of Development.

Learn more about safe disposal and more ways to address the opioid epidemic at raliusa.org.