On the morning of Tuesday, October 25th, an electrical fire severely damaged the General Vanier Legion on 4th Avenue in Roxboro. The Legion was founded in 1957 and has served the community for 65 years. In its wake, approximately 5,000 poppies were damaged by the smoke, as were artifacts, such as a damaged rifle dating back to World War 1, and a Spitfire airplane propeller.
The proceeds from the sale of poppies go towards the widespread community and Veteran support programs the Legion offers. Whether helping local Veterans, supporting seniors, providing youth sports programs, raising funds, volunteering to help those in need, or simply offering a place to gather for fun and celebration, Legionnaires provide essential services in their communities.
PHOTOS: Facebook, Dimitrios Jim Beis
Mayor of the Borough of Pierrefonds-Roxboro, Dimitrios Jim Beis, acknowledged the incident through a Facebook post: "Thank you to our Service incendie de la ville de Montréal - SIM for their quick and effective response. Know that our Administration and I are there to assist in any way possible. A small Legion founded in 1957 and one that has been a part of our Roxboro fabric for over 60 years."
For those who wish to help the Legion, donations may be made to the nationwide Poppy Fund, and the public can generously support the purchase of poppies. If you are looking for poppies in your area, visit one of the national 2022 Poppy Campaign partners beginning October 28 through November 11, or contact your Legion Branch to find poppies near you.
Bank of Montreal (BMO) – Poppy boxes on site
Best Buy Canada – Poppy boxes on site, or Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
Bulk Barn – Poppy boxes on site, or Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
Costco Wholesale Canada Ltd. – Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
Dollarama – Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
Home Depot – Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
HSBC – HSBC across Canada will have Pay Tribute Poppy boxes.
Hudson’s Bay, Home Outfitters, Saks and Saks Fifth Avenue – Poppy boxes on site
Michaels – Poppy boxes on site, or Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
PCL Construction – Poppy boxes on site
Peoples Jewelers / Signet Jewelers – Poppy boxes on site
Petro Canada – Poppy boxes on site
Royal Bank RBC – Poppy boxes on site
Scotiabank – Poppy boxes on site
Pharmaprix – Poppy boxes on site, or Poppy volunteers during scheduled period
TD Bank – Poppy boxes on site
Tim Hortons – Poppy boxes on site, or Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
VIA Rail Canada – Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
Walmart Canada – Poppy volunteers during scheduled periods
If you wish to volunteer, click here to be in contact with your nearest Legion.
SOURCE: Royal Canadian Legion
