United Way Bruce GreyA carnation floats in the Sydenham River in Owen Sound, as an act of remembrance to someone who lost their life to an opioid overdose during the annual We Remember Them event in 2024. (Photo courtesy of the United Way Bruce Grey)
Midwestern

United Way Bruce Grey to honour lives lost to opioid crisis

United Way Bruce Grey will host an event to honour those who have lost their lives to the ongoing opioid crisis.

The 5th annual We Remember Them event will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market.

The event will run from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

UWPH continues to host the annual event, which was founded in 2021 by Gelja Sheardown, in memory of her late husband, Barrett Warwick, who died of a fatal overdose.

Loved ones are encouraged to take a carnation and release it into the Sydenham River to signify an act of remembrance and love. In addition, attendees are invited to bring a photo of a loved one lost to substance use to add to the event’s community memory board.

At this year's event, there will be opportunities to donate to the UWBG Supportive Outreach Service or SOS Project, which provides vital aid to individuals affected by substance use. Also, Grey Bruce Public Health will be handing out naloxone kits.

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