May 1, 2025, Treaty No. 1 Territory, Winnipeg, MB – This morning, hundreds of people came together to roll up their sleeves, give back to the community and showcase their pride at the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s annual Spring CleanUp, presented by Manitoba Hydro and proudly sponsored by Wawanesa.
“What makes downtown so special is the people – a vibrant and diverse makeup of business owners, employees, students, residents and community members always willing to step up and make a positive impact on our city,” said Kate Fenske, CEO, Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. “Today is a shining example of that and I want to thank everyone who came out to support our continuous efforts to create a vibrant and thriving downtown that is clean, attractive and accessible to everyone.”
Once again, the Spring CleanUp drew in a record number of volunteer participants, with over 900 people registered representing nearly 85 businesses, non-profit organizations, and community members. Roughly 400 bags of litter were collected during the two-hour event.
“Downtown is where our city comes together,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “When it’s clean and welcoming, it helps local businesses, attracts new investment, and creates a stronger sense of community. Thank you to all the volunteers, businesses, and partners who stepped up today to show pride in Winnipeg. Your efforts make a real difference.”
The event kicked off with an energetic launch at Manitoba Hydro Place, where volunteers were welcomed with live Latin jazz from Papa Mambo, creative recycled flower origami-making led by ArtsJunktion, and complimentary refreshments courtesy of Indulge Café and Bakery and Colosimo Coffee Roasters, both local downtown Winnipeg businesses.
“Manitoba Hydro is delighted to once again host the Downtown Spring Cleanup, reinforcing our commitment to community engagement,” said Rena Journault, Community Investment & Public Safety Specialist. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with our neighbours and contribute to a cleaner, safer downtown.”
“Today’s clean-up is a wonderful way for Wawanesa employees and our neighbours to unite to look after our community here in downtown Winnipeg,” says Jackie De Pape Hornick, Director, Communications and Community Impact, Wawanesa. “Our support is part of 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 Spring CleanUp complements the important and ongoing work of the Wawanesa Enviro Team. In 2024, the team collected over 1.3 million litres of litter, removed more than 12,600 graffiti tags, safely removed over 7,400 needles, and cleaned nearly 7,100 transit shelters highlighting their year-round, daily dedication to keeping downtown clean, accessible, and attractive.
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MEDIA INQUIRIES
Olivia Billson
Director of Marketing, Engagement and Communications
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ
Phone: 204-806-2506