Waterloo Region – It’s National AccessAbility Week in Canada and the Region of Waterloo is taking action to reduce barriers by joining the Sunflower Program, an internationally recognized initiative that supports people with hidden disabilities in accessing public services.  

The program allows community members to voluntarily share they have a hidden disability by wearing the sunflower symbol on a lanyard or bracelet. 

Services across the Region of Waterloo will join the program in a phased approach, starting with regional museums, libraries and the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF). 

“Joining Sunflower Program is an important step in building a more accessible and inclusive Waterloo Region,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “By participating in this program, we are raising awareness, reducing barriers, and ensuring that everyone in our community can access services with dignity and confidence.” 

Membership in the program includes training to support staff in delivering inclusive, supportive services for residents with hidden disabilities. 

"We are delighted to welcome the Region of Waterloo to the Sunflower,” said Clare Kumar, Regional Director, Canada for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. “By joining the program, the Region is demonstrating its commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible community. We look forward to supporting regional services as they introduce the Sunflower across their organization.” 

Hidden disabilities, or non-visible disabilities, are disabilities that are not immediately or visibly apparent to others. An estimated 25 percent of people living in Ontario and Waterloo Region have a disability, many of them hidden or invisible. 

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