First poppy pinned on mayor as Legion Br. 71 braces for donation shortfall

Branch 71 unofficially launched its annual poppy campaign on Tuesday with the tradition of pinning the first one on Mayor Wayne Redekop at town hall.

The Royal Canadian Legion ceremony Tuesday afternoon marked the local start of the annual fundraiser that aids veterans and families. Not all was sunshine and poppies though, as the local legion branch warns the Canada Post strike could cut their donations by about one third, affecting support for urgent needs in Fort Erie.

Those attending the first poppy pinning included Scherri Teal, poppy committee chair, who pinned the poppy on the mayor’s lapel to officially start the campaign.

“Canada Post has really put a damper on receiving donations for the poppy campaign,” Teal told Fort Erie Radio on Wednesday.

Mail donations typically make up a large part of the Legion’s Poppy Trust Fund contributions with Branch 71 often receiving mail donations from out of town and U.S. supporters. With regular mail delivery disrupted by the ongoing Canada Post strike, the branch expects fewer early returns and slower processing.

“It could be a third of the donations, which really impacts our outlook,” said Teal.

Counter box returns have been thin for Branch 71 in recent years as many Fort Erie shoppers head out of town and to big box stores, which Branch 71 does not deal with.

All funds raised through poppy donations go to support veterans in emergency situations that include shelter, food, clothing, prescription medicine, medical devices and equipment and transportation to medical appointments.

Residents can donate at counter boxes across town starting October 31 or by dropping off cash at Branch 71’s lounge on Garrison Road daily during afternoon and early evening hours.

“Hopefully the economy hasn’t dampened it any more than it already has and people are able to afford even some pocket change. Every little bit helps,” said Teal.

The branch will host a Remembrance gathering with visiting U.S. veterans at Greenwood Cemetery on Thompson Road on November 9 at 1 p.m., followed by a reception at the branch on Garrison Road.

The event is meant not only to honour veterans but also to remind the public that every donation to the Poppy Fund directly supports those who served, from medical needs to daily assistance.

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