Community unites to honour strength, care and spirit following tragic downtown Bowmanville fire

Clarington, Ontario – Today at Waverley Place, Clarington Council welcomed residents for an afternoon honouring the kindness that carried the community through downtown Bowmanville’s tragic fire of March 6, 2025.

Mayor Adrian Foster expressed deep appreciation for the strength, care, and spirit of Clarington as he joined community leaders, first responders, local businesses, and residents in a shared moment of reflection. As the Bowmanville Strong flag rose and commemorative pins were shared, neighbours stood side by side—symbols in hand and overhead—with hearts connected by the support shown during and after the fire.

“The resilience of our community is inspiring, and I’m genuinely in awe of how Clarington united in this moment of crisis. The outpouring of compassion and selfless support was truly remarkable. We are deeply grateful to every person who stepped forward to share in the grief, offer comfort and lend a helping hand,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.

Set on the backdrop of historic Waverley Place, archival photographs offered glimpses into the people and places that shaped these streets over the past century, preserving legacies that continue to inspire. Message boards were filled with stories of memory and hope, capturing the enduring sense of togetherness that defines the community. Among the most tender moments was the memorial tribute to Kelli Jean Faris, whose life was lost in the fire. Residents shared heartfelt notes of love and support for her family, honouring a life remembered and held close by many.

The outpouring of community support in the wake of the March 6 fire in downtown Bowmanville has been nothing short of extraordinary—bringing comfort to displaced residents, strength to grieving families, and vital relief to impacted businesses. The fire claimed one life, displaced more than 30 residents, and forced 10 businesses to close. In response, local fundraisers, donations, and acts of kindness poured in. The Clarington Board of Trade led a business relief effort, raising over $85,000 from over 60 contributors to help affected businesses recover. The Salvation Army mobilized an overwhelming community response to support displaced residents, raising over $70,000 in gift cards and essential goods, and providing personalized assistance to help evacuees begin rebuilding their lives.

“This fire hit us hard, yet it also showed our true strength. Clarington’s charm may lie in its picturesque downtowns, but its heart and soul are the remarkable people here. That’s what makes Clarington awesome, and it’s why we’re proud to call this caring, amazing community our home,” added Mayor Foster.

Clarington Council extends its sincere thanks to everyone who came out to share in this moment of reflection. Your continued care for one another are what make this community strong.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Jennifer O'Meara, Policy and Communications Advisor
905-260-2844 | jomeara@clarington.net

Sarah Raso, Communications Officer
905-260-3495 | sraso@clarington.net

Local Councillor Ward 4 Margaret Zwart, Regional Councillor Ward 3 and 4 Willie Woo, Local Councillor Ward 2 Lloyd Rang, Mayor Adrian Foster, Local Councillor Ward 1 Sami Elhajjeh, MP Bowmanville-Oshawa, North Jamil Jivani, MP Northumberland-Clarke Philip Lawrence and representing the office of Todd McCarthy MPP for Durham, Douglas Ellis raise the Bowmanville Strong flag in a powerful symbol of unity and resilience.

Community members gathered at Waverley Place to honour the strength and compassion shown in the wake of the March 6 fire.

Messages of hope, memory, and love filled the boards—capturing the heart of a community that stands together.