As part of our commitment, Sleeman Breweries is donating $35,000 through our Sleeman Better Water Fund to Fondation Rivières, a Quebec-based organization committed to helping ensure water quality and access to clean water in that province. 

Fondation Rivières aims to revitalize Rivière du Nord in southern Quebec within three to five years so that it is once again safe to swim in the river.  To do so, they will mobilize communities and work with local municipalities to bring about change. 

“Thanks to the Sleeman Better Water Fund, we're launching an ambitious initiative to mobilize elected officials and communities to clean up the Rivière du Nord”, says André Bélanger, General Manager of Fondation Rivières. “Ultimately, the goal is to reclaim the river and restore access to it, because we believe that it's by living in and around rivers that we develop an attachment and a desire to protect them."

The $35,000 in funding from the Sleeman Better Water Fund helps Fondation Rivières to hire an employee team to test Rivière du Nord’s water, support a shoreline cleanup and tree planting, and – when their work is complete - host “Le grand splash”, a community swimming event in the river to celebrate its return to health.

The Sleeman Better Water Fund is an annual grant to support Canadian water conservation and clean water accessibility. 

“The organization’s project for Rivière du Nord is a great fit for the Sleeman Better Water Fund,” says Mike Minami, President and CEO of Sleeman Breweries. “We were impressed with Fondation Rivières’ commitment to uniting communities in addressing water issues. They are breaking down silos and bringing people together for a common good.”

An additional $5,000 from the Sleeman Better Water Fund will go to Living Lakes Canada, the inaugural recipient of the Sleeman Better Water Fund.

“With the support of the Sleeman Better Water Fund, Living Lakes Canada has been able to expand its National Lake Blitz program, which is building a cross-country network of passionate volunteers dedicated to lake stewardship and freshwater protection,” says Shevon Wilson, Development & Research Coordinator, Living Lakes Canada. “We’re grateful for Sleeman’s ongoing commitment to monitor and protect Canada's lakes!”

In 2024, Sleeman Breweries employees had the opportunity to take part in the national lake monitoring program as well as a lake biodiversity photo challenge through Living Lakes Canada.

“It was a great experience for our employees,” says Linden Gossen, National Environmental Health & Safety Manager. “They felt like they were part of the solution and excited to be involved in a tangible way. We’re very happy to continue our support of their work.”

Applications for the Sleeman Better Water Fund open every September with funding awarded on March 22 for World Water Day.

The Sleeman Better Water Fund is administered by the Guelph Community Foundation, a local partner that facilitates charitable giving.