Blog

May 28^th, 2026

PRESS RELEASE: Reep Green Solutions Launches Rain Barrel Fundraiser to Support New WALES Community Garden and Water Conservation Initiatives

KITCHENER, ON, May 28, 2026. Reep Green Solutions is partnering with RainBarrel.ca to host a rain barrel fundraiser in support of the Working Adults Learning Empowering Skills (WALES) group’s new inclusive community garden at Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region. The sale will also help expand community-based initiatives delivered through Rain Smart Neighbourhoods, a City of Kitchener-funded program that helps residents reduce stormwater runoffs and protect local waterways through rainwater harvesting.

Sales are open until June 5. The rain barrel pickup event will take place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the WALES Group Building at 14 Braun St, Kitchener. Home delivery will also be available for an additional fee, with deliveries beginning after the event and continuing daily until completed.

“We know that climate change will mean warmer and wetter conditions in the Region of Waterloo. The more frequent and intense rainstorms increase the amount of runoff pollutants that are collected on roadways and sidewalks before entering our storm systems, and contaminating our creeks, rivers and ponds.

One easy way to reduce runoff pollution, save money, and conserve water is to install a rain barrel connected to your downspout. By collecting water from your rooftop and re-using it in your gardens, you help to direct water back into our ground water aquifers. It’s a win-win tool to help you and your community prepare for our changing climate conditions, and protect our vital waterways” – Taylor Ross, Stormwater and Healthy Landscapes Programs Manager, Reep Green Solutions.

Each rain barrel purchased through the fundraiser includes a leaf and mosquito filter basket, a spigot, an overflow adaptor, and an overflow hose. Additional products available for purchase include high-quality composters and downspout diverters.

“At Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region, we believe strong communities are built through good neighbours working together to support one another and the environment we share. This partnership highlights how simple, sustainable actions can help protect our local waterways while strengthening connections across our community. We are especially proud of our WALES members, whose active involvement in the community garden demonstrates their leadership, commitment to learning, and meaningful contributions to a
greener, more inclusive neighbourhood.” – Kim Sproul, Community Development Manager, Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region

Residents are encouraged to pre-order by June 5 online at: RainBarrel.ca/ReepGreen. Homeowners can keep their gardens healthy and well-nourished by ordering a rain barrel today!

About Reep Green Solutions
Reep Green Solutions is a charitable organization dedicated to helping people in Waterloo Region live sustainably through programs and services focused on home energy efficiency, healthy yards, water conservation, and waste reduction.

For more information, visit: Reep Green Solutions – Reep Green Solutions is an environmental charity that helps people live sustainably.

About RainBarrel.ca
RainBarrel.ca reclaims food-grade barrels and repurposes them into rain barrels for communities across Canada. Through partnerships with non-profit organizations, RainBarrel.ca supports local fundraising initiatives while promoting water conservation and sustainable living.

For more information, visit: RainBarrel.ca Media Resources

About Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region
Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region (EAFWR) came into being in 1981, founded by a group of parents who wanted their children who had developmental disabilities to have friends and be included in their community. As a local not-for-profit who serves nearly 3,000 adults and children with developmental and physical disabilities, EAFWR champions an inclusive community for all by working with people with disabilities, their networks and the broader community.
For more information, visit: Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region

About City of Kitchener Sanitary and Stormwater Utilities
The City of Kitchener Sanitary and Stormwater Utilities deliver programs that support resilient infrastructure and a greener city. Through its funding of Rain Smart Neighbourhoods, the City supports local action to improve water quality and reduce flood risk.

For more information, visit: City of Kitchener Stormwater Management

Media Contact
Swatil Mahmud
Manager of Communications, Reep Green Solutions
Email: smahmud@reepgreen.ca

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