Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is delighted to welcome the City of Pickering in Ontario, Canada, to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network.
The City joined the Sunflower in June 2025 and publicly introduced the program to the community in November 2025, reinforcing its commitment to creating inclusive, safe and welcoming spaces and services.
From the first week of December 2025, people with non-visible disabilities have been able to access free Sunflower products through the City, providing a simple, voluntary way to indicate that they may need additional support, understanding or more time when accessing City services.
The Sunflower is a globally recognized symbol for non-visible disabilities. By choosing to wear the Sunflower, someone can discreetly indicate that they may need extra time, understanding or support.
Where to get a Sunflower
The City of Pickering provides Sunflower products free of charge, with a choice of a Sunflower pin, lanyard or waterproof wristband.
Sunflower products can be requested in person at the City's Customer Care counter, by email, or by calling 905.683.7575.
People who need support can also approach City staff displaying an ally Sunflower lanyard, which indicates that they have been trained in the program and understand that someone may need extra time, understanding or support.
Supporting people with non-visible disabilities
As part of its membership, the City committed to providing Sunflower training to all City staff, including seasonal employees. Training was delivered to City staff in October 2025 and has also been incorporated into onboarding for new employees.
This helps City staff recognize the Sunflower and better understand how to support people with non-visible disabilities when they access City programs, facilities and services.
Mayor Kevin Ashe said:
“Providing exceptional customer service is at the heart of what we do. We understand that building a truly inclusive community means giving people the tools to express their needs in ways that feel safe and comfortable. This program is a natural extension of how we strive to deliver meaningful service – by listening, adapting, and creating a respectful environment where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued. It’s who we are.”
Clare Kumar, Regional Director – Canada, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, shared:
“We are delighted to welcome the City of Pickering to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. By giving people access to the Sunflower and equipping City staff with the knowledge to recognize what it means, Pickering is helping people with non-visible disabilities feel more confident that they will be understood and supported when accessing City services.”
Creating a more inclusive community
Accessing public services, recreational facilities and community spaces can present different challenges for someone with a non-visible disability, condition or chronic illness.
By recognizing the Sunflower, the City of Pickering is helping to create more inclusive and welcoming spaces where people can discreetly indicate that they may need a little more time, understanding or support.
We look forward to working with the City of Pickering as it continues its commitment to making City programs and services more accessible and inclusive.
To find out more, including how to request a free Sunflower product, visit the City of Pickering Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program page.