GUELPH – Community members, families, people with lived experience and local organizations will gather in Guelph this week to remember those lost to drug poisoning and unveil a new permanent memorial.
The Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy is hosting its annual Drug Poisoning Awareness Day event Thursday at York Road Park, near the covered bridge.
Organizers say the gathering will provide an opportunity to honour those who have died, support families and others who continue to grieve, and raise awareness about the need for compassionate, health-focused responses as communities continue to face an unpredictable and toxic unregulated drug supply.
This year’s event will also mark the unveiling of a new permanent memorial, made possible through support and fundraising from community members, organizations and other supporters.
The memorial will provide a dedicated space for remembrance, reflection and healing, while serving as a lasting tribute to those lost to drug poisoning.
The event will feature speakers, a moment of silence recognizing lives lost in Guelph-Wellington over the past year, information about local resources, and free naloxone training for anyone interested in learning the life-saving skill.
Community members who purchased Drug Poisoning Awareness Day fundraising shirts over the past five years are also encouraged to wear them to the gathering.
Drug Poisoning Awareness Day runs from noon until 1 p.m. Thursday, August 27th, at York Road Park in Guelph. Pizza and refreshments will also be available.
