City of Waterloo launches Hidden Disability Sunflower program in time for National AccessAbility Week

The City of Waterloo is pleased to be the first municipality in Waterloo Region to launch the Hidden Disability Sunflower program to raise awareness of non-visible disabilities and help staff recognize when someone may need additional support.

Starting today, Sunflower lanyards will be available for pickup at the Waterloo Service Centre; City Hall; Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex; RIM Park; Albert McCormick Community Centre; and all Waterloo Public Library branches.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is a globally recognized initiative that aims to provide a discreet way for people living with non-visible disabilities or conditions to signal that they may need support or patience during customer service experiences. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, individuals can voluntarily choose where and when to share their personal information. Staff and volunteers are trained to recognize the sunflower lanyard and can then respond helpfully. The program is based on an honour system, meaning people will not have to explain their disability or show proof.

“As proud members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, the City is committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported and understood,” said City of Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe.

According to Statistics Canada, 27 per cent of Canadians aged 15 and older live with one or more disabilities that limit their daily activities. Tens of thousands of people in Waterloo Region live with invisible disabilities such as brain injury, chronic pain, low or no vision, deafness or hearing loss, autism, mental health conditions or learning differences. These experiences may not be immediately apparent, but they can significantly impact daily life.

The City of Waterloo is among the first municipalities in Canada to embed the Sunflower program across its services, which include customer service counters, recreation facilities, libraries, festivals and events.

"In our ongoing commitment to creating inviting, accessible spaces for all, the library is pleased to partner with the City on the Sunflower program, ensuring every visitor is met with compassionate service and support," said Kelly Kipfer, CEO of Waterloo Public Library.

The City is also taking part in the National AccessAbility Week Tradeshow and Conference, hosted by Independent Living Waterloo Region. The tradeshow highlights accessibility-related services, resources and innovations while engaging residents, service providers, and organizations from across the region. The event takes place Monday, June 1 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday, June 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Regional Museum in Kitchener. Registration is free through Eventbrite.

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