Dear Editor:
On behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion, Elora Branch 229, we wish to thank all our community residents both private and business for their continued and outstanding support again this year.
During the 2021 Poppy Campaign we received for the Poppy Fund lapel poppy donations of $10,117.90; financial donations $1,672.40; mail-out program $20,402; wreath and pin sales $2,639 for a successful campaign total of $34,831.30. It should be noted that expenses for this campaign will be approximately $8,000. Sincere appreciation for the donators, the volunteer canvassers and the multitude of merchants who made space for the poppy boxes.
In the previous year – Oct. 1, 2020 to Sept. 30, 2021 – Elora Branch 229 provided 16 donations from the Poppy Fund that supported activities such as local veteran’s health care; service dog program; homeless vets; District C hospital fund; provincial charitable foundation; provincial poppy fund; British Commonwealth Ex-Services League; youth education and the local cadet corps to name some. Our contribution during this period amounted to $28,963.
During the poppy campaign and Remembrance Day period we were fortunate in this community to observe special tributes to those who served. The fantastic display of poppies by the St. John’s Anglican Church and the solemn lamppost banners of former service personnel reminded citizens and visitors alike of the debt owed to many.
On Nov. 11 Branch 229 provided services at both local cenotaphs in Salem and Elora honouring the supreme sacrifice made by residents of the former Nichol and Pilkington Townships and Elora village during two World Wars. The Elora service was taped and is available for viewing at www.eloralegion.ca. Special appreciation and gratitude for all those who contributed their time, support and services in making Remembrance Day the special occasion it is.
Thank you.
Jim Paterson,
Elora Legion Br. 229
Poppy Chair