An event in Owen Sound will help bring attention to the continued overdose crisis in the city.

On March 25 from 8 am to 12:30 p.m., the United Way, Safe n Sound, the Grey Bruce Public Health (GBPH), and other partners will be at the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market.

People are urged to take a carnation, walk the block around the 8th and 9th Street bridges, and then drop the flower into the river to symbolize the loss of those who have passed due to the opioid crisis.

Donations are also being accepted to support the Supportive Outreach Service Project.

Grey Bruce Public Health will be on hand offering out Naloxone kits, safe-use equipment, and information about the current Opioid Epidemic. They’ll also share how public health is addressing this issue through the Opioid Response Plan and other efforts.

The event started in 2021, at the urging of Gelja Sheardown, to mark the anniversary of the fatal overdose death of her husband Barrett Warwick.

“He worked 7 days a week, he was a wonderful father, he was a wonderful husband, and then he was gone,” Sheardown reflected.

“I’d like to offer my most sincere condolences to the groups of families and friends who are missing those who have been lost to opioid overdose/poisoning. We’re actively collaborating with community partners and people with lived and living experience to addressing the opioid pandemic in our community. We are committed to supporting our community” said Alexis Cook, program manager of Harm Reduction at GBPH. “We’re honoured to be taking part in this event and for the opportunity to share information with the community on how to recognize an overdose and on the potentially life-saving drug Naloxone, which can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose.”