Millions of the red-and-black lapel pins — a symbol of remembrance for the Canadian men and women who have served in war and military support operations — have been distributed to legion branches across the country, including those in Grey-Bruce.
People can donate money and receive a poppy at multiple businesses, establishments and events in the area and from volunteers at various locations until Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
“This is to collect money that’s put in a trust fund for our veterans and their families,” said Anne McCallum, poppy chairwoman for Branch 6 in Owen Sound.
Money raised helps to provide emergency assistance, such as shelter, food, clothing, prescription medicine and transportation, to veterans.
“Some of the older veterans are in need of wheelchairs, lift aids and different things like that so that they get to keep their mobility and their dignity,” McCallum said.
“Last year, we helped a few that were just down on their luck. And that happens.”
The Poppy Fund also assists veterans or their widows who are in hospital or a care facility.
Bursaries are made available for children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of veterans who require assistance.
More than $14 million was collected by poppy campaigns across Canada last year.
“The wearing of a poppy is a way for everyone to honour the memory of the thousands of Canadians who gave their lives in the defence of freedom,” says a news release from Branch 6.
