May 7, 2024, Treaty No. 1 territory, Winnipeg, MB – The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ is celebrating the incredible efforts of its partners and community members as nearly 700 individuals came together for the annual Downtown Spring CleanUp.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming community support of our efforts in creating a thriving downtown that is clean, attractive and accessible for everyone,” says Kate Fenske, CEO of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. “This annual event is more than just picking up litter, it is an opportunity to come together as a diverse and vibrant group of community members, business owners, employees, students and residents – to make a positive impact on our city and this incredible downtown community!”
This year’s downtown Spring CleanUp drew in a record number of participants, representing over 60 businesses and non-profit organizations, and hundreds of community members. Roughly 415 bags of litter were collected during the two-hour event.
“This event is all about community, and it reflects the passion so many of us have for making our downtown clean, green and vibrant,” says Mayor Scott Gillingham.
The downtown Spring CleanUp event complements the tireless efforts of the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Wawanesa Enviro Team, who work seven days a week to keep downtown clean. In 2023, the team picked over 940,000 litres of litter, removed more than 12,000 graffiti tags, and cleaned transit shelters over 5,000 times.
“Today we get to feel like what it’s like to be part of the Downtown Winnipeg Biz Wawanesa Enviro Team,” says Selena Hinds, VP of Marketing and Communications at Wawanesa. “All of us at Wawanesa are so proud to join together with our downtown neighbours to clean up the area for all residents, businesses and visitors. Our support is part our $450,000 three-year investment in Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Wawanesa Enviro Team, the planting of seasonal flowers, and clean ups like this one.”
The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ extends heartfelt appreciation to its partners and generous sponsors, Manitoba Hydro, Wawanesa, the City of Winnipeg, Recycle Everywhere and Panda Tea for their invaluable support in making the event possible.
“Manitoba Hydro has a long history of volunteering in our communities across the province,” said Rena Journault, Community Investment & Public Safety Specialist. “Spring cleanups are a great way to get to know your neighbours and show your support.”
Participants received complimentary CleanUp packages which included a reusable Downtown Winnipeg BIZ tote bag, information sheet and supplies. Teams also vied for the titles of Best Team Name and Best Team Outfits, with grand prize packs filled with products by downtown businesses.
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MEDIA INQUIRIES
Olivia Billson
Director of Marketing, Engagement and Communications
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ
Phone: 204-806-2506