WINS Program

Working to Improve Neighbourhood Safety

The WINS Program is a partnership between Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services, Sanguen Health Centre, and the Cities of Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo. Launched as a pilot in Cambridge in 2018, WINS has expanded across the region in response to its proven impact.

WINS employs and trains Peer Outreach Workers with lived or living experience to proactively identify and safely dispose of improperly discarded sharps in areas most affected. Peer workers also provide education on safe disposal and connect people to harm reduction and health supports—helping improve safety while building trust in the community.

Program Impact

WINS works to:

  • Reduce discarded needles in public spaces
  • Increase awareness of safe sharps disposal options
  • Create meaningful employment for people facing barriers to traditional work
  • Support safer, more informed community responses to substance use

 

By combining harm reduction, peer-led outreach, and coordinated municipal response, WINS helps protect public safety while addressing root causes.

Looking for More Information?

📧 wins@sanguen.com
📞 519-497-8768

If You Find a Needle

If you find a needle, do not touch it with bare hands.

  • Call Region of Waterloo Public Health at 519-575-4400 for instructions and support
  • Teach children never to touch needles and to tell a trusted adult

City-Specific Supports

  • Cambridge
    Visit Cambridge Safe Needle Disposal or contact
    📧 cleanup@cambridge.ca | 📞 519-623-1340
  • Waterloo (city-owned property)
    📧 sharpscleanup@waterloo.ca | 📞 519-886-1550
    Trained staff will respond and safely remove the sharp.

Follow WINS on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sanguenwins

Watch 

https://youtu.be/KLk4At1_VU0?si=XwodRy6eh7KtAGpT 

https://youtu.be/KLk4At1_VU0