On January 13, the Mid-Columbia Children's Council (MCCC) hosted a meeting to address alarming incidents involving prescription medications found in a classroom, which included a hospitalization case of a 16-month-old child who ingested a capsule. During the meeting, parents raised concerns about the council's response and the timeline of notifications following the incidents, particularly criticizing the two-hour delay in informing affected families. MCCC Executive Director Freddy Gonzalez clarified that the organization has launched investigations into both incidents, aiming to dispel misinformation circulating in the community. Parents expressed skepticism about explanations that the medications could have been brought in on a child’s shoe, while some demanded more stringent safety protocols to protect children. The meeting underscored the critical need for trust in childcare providers, with parents asserting that any form of medication should be strictly prohibited in classrooms.

Gonzalez acknowledged the concerns and reiterated MCCC's commitment to child safety and transparency. As investigations continue, MCCC aims to improve its operational protocols to prevent such incidents in the future. The meeting concluded with a pledge for ongoing communication with parents as the situation develops.