Nov. 11 is coming soon and the Legion members will once again be out canvassing for the Poppy Campaign. The official starting date is Oct. 25.
Many people wonder what the money collected during the poppy campaign is used for. This money is placed in a trust fund and used locally. Over the years money has been used to purchase equipment for the hospital and Moose Mountain Lodge (MML), such as beds and special mattresses as well equipment used for patient care.
Furniture for the lounge at MML, a rescue sled for the fire department and supplies for STARS Air Ambulance are other donations. The most important purpose of this fund is to assist veterans who are in need, whether to purchase needed equipment or assist in an emergency.
A study has been started to determine the number of veterans living on the streets in larger cities and the number is high. In Regina alone the number of veterans in need far exceeds the beds available in shelters. This study will be discussed at the provincial convention this fall and hopefully some suggestions and actions will come out of these discussions.
There are veterans home from Afghanistan with severe physical and mental injuries who need the help of the legions.
The monies collected through the poppy campaign are used to help in all of these situations. Any questions you may have can be asked of the legion member who canvases your business.
