Redcliff Legion happy with Poppy Campaign despite total decrease

By Justin Seward

Commentator/Courier

Royal Canadian Legion Branch #6 Redcliff wrapped their annual Poppy Campaign on Nov. 10 and 2019’s total was $13,313, which was down from 2018’s $15,000.
The campaign is meant to accept donations from the poppy box and wreath purchases that is held in trust at the branch level to support veterans and their families within their communities and to ensure Canadians do not forget.
The Redcliff Legion’s past president, Dennis Rathwell, says the branch is satisfied with the total despite the lower number this year.
“It was down a little bit,” said Rathwell.
“But if you look at it, the economy isn’t that great and especially to do with us, the industrial area, there was lots of places that closed their doors. Just go out and do the best that you can.”
Rathwell says for a number of years the poppy fund has been ran by the legion’s older volunteers and some veterans would pitch in and help.
The hope is for more youth to step up and help during the campaign , but it’s easier said than done.
“It’s not so easy just for a youth to step up especially with the Poppy Campaign because they go to school,” he said.
“And to do it with some others, they’re working. Whatever help you can get, you’re just very happy.”
Rathwell says the Medicine Hat Cadets do help by setting up at Costco and sitting at a table taking donations, which the Legion is very pleased with.
Legion members also make a donation to the fund too.

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