Local officials and veterans gather to launch Central Ontario Poppy Campaign

This year's campaign also coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Poppy as the symbol of Remembrance Day.

Barrie-Innisfil Member of Parliament John Brassard, Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte MP Doug Shipley, and other local elected officials such as Barrie Mayor Jeff Lehman, joined Veterans and members of the Royal Canadian Legion to launch the Central Ontario Poppy Campaign in Barrie on Friday, Oct 29.

John Brassard speaking at the event

At the event, veterans representing Royal Canadian Legions across Central Ontario pinned poppies to elected officials to signify the launch of the new campaign.

Each year, from the last Friday of October to November 11, Canadians wear a Poppy as a visual pledge to honour Canadian Veterans across the country. While the poppy is freely distributed, the Legion accepts donations to the Poppy Fund. Money donated to The Poppy Fund goes directly to supporting Veterans and their families.

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The Royal Canadian Legion can return to a more traditional fundraising campaign this year, with members and volunteers manning tipping boxes throughout the region. Their goal this year is to raise $240,000 for The Poppy Fund.

The Legion is always looking for volunteers to help with canvassing, and you can find out more about donating your time here.

“If people want to volunteer, maybe we can increase that number,” said Brassard at the event. “Reach out to your local Legion and let’s see if we can boost their campaign beyond the goal of $240,000.”


Featured image: Coady Fitzgerald

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