The Region of Waterloo is proud to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, strengthening its commitment to creating a more accessible and inclusive community for residents and visitors. The Sunflower program is an internationally recognized symbol used by people with non-apparent disabilities. Membership helps ensure that residents with non-apparent disabilities feel recognized, supported and welcomed when accessing Regional services.
Understanding non-apparent disabilities
Many disabilities are not immediately apparent to others. The Sunflower provides a simple, voluntary way for people to share that they have a non-apparent disability and may need extra support, time or understanding. Residents can choose to wear the Sunflower symbol on a lanyard or bracelet to discreetly communicate their needs to service providers without having to explain their disability.
Building awareness through training
Membership in the Sunflower Program includes training and resources to support staff in delivering services to residents with non-apparent disabilities. The training helps build awareness and understanding, ensuring colleagues are equipped to support residents and visitors in an inclusive and respectful way.
Supporting residents across Regional services
The Region of Waterloo is introducing the Sunflower program through a phased approach, beginning with Regional Museums, Libraries and the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF). Grand River Transit (GRT) will join the programme in the second phase. With an estimated 25 per cent of residents living with a disability, many of which are non-apparent, the programme represents an important step in raising awareness and reducing barriers across the community.
The first phase will begin during National Accessibility Week, reflecting the Region's ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
Karen Redman, Regional Chair, said:
"We are proud to join the Sunflower program as part of our ongoing commitment to building a more accessible and inclusive Waterloo Region. By participating in this program, we are taking a meaningful step toward raising awareness, reducing barriers, and ensuring that everyone in our community can access services with dignity and confidence."
Clare Kumar, Regional Director, Canada, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, commented:
"We are delighted to welcome the Region of Waterloo to the Sunflower. By joining the Sunflower program, the Region is demonstrating its commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible community for residents and visitors with non-apparent disabilities. We look forward to supporting Regional services as they introduce the Sunflower across their organization and continue their accessibility journey."
Together, through awareness, education and understanding, we can help create communities where everyone feels welcomed, supported and included.
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