Fundraising goal reached for memorial dedicated to those lost to drug poisoning
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The Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy (WGDS), together with community agencies, people with lived and living experience, and families who have lost loved ones, announced today that the fundraising goal for the Pathways to Remembering Memorial has been successfully met.
Now in the planning phase, the memorial will create a permanent place in Guelph for reflection, healing, and remembrance of those who have died due to drug toxicity. In addition to honouring lives lost, the memorial will help reduce stigma, draw attention to the impact of drug poisonings in our community, and support those who continue to carry grief. WGDS is working closely with the City of Guelph to finalize a location and the design, with the aim of unveiling the memorial in August 2026 to mark Drug Poisoning Awareness Day.
Fundraising began in 2021 and reflects years of community commitment — from T-shirt sales at Drug Poisoning Awareness Day events to donations from families, friends, and community members, many of whom carry the pain of losing someone they love. These efforts have opened space for conversations about substance use, remembrance, and the need for compassionate action.
The campaign was completed thanks to a generous contribution from Homewood Health Centre, whose donation helped WGDS and community partners cross the finish line.
The Pathways to Remembering Memorial will serve as a visible symbol of remembrance across Guelph-Wellington, and a reminder of the human cost of the drug toxicity crisis and the importance of a caring, coordinated community response.
