The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 288 in Airdrie will be celebrating its annual poppy campaign – a national fundraising initiative that aims to assist raising money for veterans and their families during the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day – from Oct. 29 to Nov. 11.
According to Yvonne Young, public relations officer with the Airdrie branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, the campaign also helps to provide grants and bursaries to children and grandchildren of veterans, and contributes to a number of community programs.
Such veteran and community support programs include the Bethany Care Centre, local cadet programs, and community food banks.
“[The campaign] is for community support, and it’s also a time that we can reflect on those who have served and are serving to show [our support],” Young said.
The nation-wide campaign is held in communities across Canada, starting the last Friday of October and continuing until Remembrance Day.
And while the poppy is freely distributed to all who wish to wear one, the Legion website states it “gratefully accepts donations” to the Poppy Fund.
Young said the poppy is an emblem of supreme sacrifice and remembrance, and is a visual pledge to honour Canada’s veterans and those who have laid down their lives for the freedoms Canadians enjoy today.
“We cherish [and remember] their sacrifices,” she said. “I have family that served in World War I and World War II, and it’s quite important for me that the youth understand why we are doing what we’re doing.
“And why what we’re doing is important – it benefits the community.”
Young said in the days leading up to Nov. 11, poppies will be available throughout Airdrie thanks to Legionnaires who volunteer to distribute them through schools, community organizations, and local businesses.
She added the local legion is looking for additional volunteers to assist with manning tables daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at points throughout the community, including Costco, Cross Iron Mills, Superstore, Wal-Mart, and Save On Foods.
“We also present a Remembrance Day service program to the schools when they have their assembly,” she said. “And we have a virtual Remembrance Day service ceremony held during COVID-19.”
Young added the presentation is being produced by the Bert Church LIVE Theatre.
“We’re encouraging people to view it because we’re not having a formal ceremony at Genesis Place like we do because of the Alberta Heath Services restrictions,” she said.
Young added there will be a small ceremony held at the Airdrie Cenotaph at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 11, and attendees of the outdoor ceremony are encouraged to mask-up and practise social distancing.
Those looking to view the virtual Remembrance Day service are encouraged to visit airdrielegion.ca
Carmen Cundy, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @carmenrcundy
