Tofield Legion kicks off its poppy campaign

With Remembrance Day not too far away, Tofield Branch No. 91 of the Royal Canadian Legion started its annual poppy campaign on Friday, Oct. 26.

The Tofield Legion kicked off its poppy campaign along with the rest of the nation on Friday, Oct. 26. Seen here is Legion Vice President Florence Chubaty pinning a poppy on Beaver County councillor Kevin Smook. FRONT ROW, from left: Legion Secretary Bonnie Ferguson, Reeve Jim Kallal, Councillor Kevin Smook, Mayor Deb Dueck, Legion President Barbara Ferguson, MLA Jessica Littlewood. BACK ROW, from left: Fifty-six Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps – Nootka (first four),152 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Resolute – Edmonton, Sergeant-At-Arms Jim Warren. Please see story on page 2. KERRY ANDERSON PHOTO

“Each year on the last Friday of October we kick off our poppy campaign, which runs up to Nov. 11,” said Legion Secretary Bonnie Ferguson. “On the Friday, Legion members distribute poppy trays, wreaths and decor to participating businesses and organizations, and after Nov. 11, everything is picked up, money’s counted and deposited.”

This year is special for veterans, she added, as it marks 100 years since the end of the First World War.

“Contributions through the campaign directly support Canada’s veterans and their families, while ensuring Canada never forgets,” explained Ferguson. “Once a year we may use poppy funds to have a Veterans’ Appreciation supper. This year we donated $2,000 to Sunshine Villa for raised gardening beds and $14,000 to Tofield Lodge for a new walk-in shower.”

Through the donations to the Legion Poppy Fund, the Legion provides financial assistance and support to veterans, including Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP, and their families who are in need. Poppy funds may be used for in various ways, according to the Canadian Legion website. . . . contd.