A small donation to the Stratford Legion Branch 8 poppy campaign can make a big difference in the lives of veterans, and others in the community.
Steve Zurbrigg from the local Legion says the annual campaign allows the Legion to make important donations while encouraging everyone, particularly the younger generation, to remember the sacrifices veterans have made for their country.
“We spend a lot of money directly and indirectly on veterans and their families.”
A recent $7,500 donation to the Stratford General Hospital Foundation, for example, will support the purchase of a ceiling lift at the hospital’s medical unit that will help everyone in the community, including veterans.
The ‘lift’ will help transfer patients without manual lifting, reducing risk of injury to staff and the people being helped.
Other donations have gone towards healthcare institutions, cadets and homeless veterans.
Wearing a poppy is a way to show support, Zurbrigg said.
“It is important to wear it because you are remembering those that have served.”
That includes Afghanistan, First World War, Second World War, Korea, and peacekeepers who have served in other conflicts.
“A lot of families from Stratford have sent family members. A number haven’t come back and a number have come back injured.”
Local volunteers are helping to run the poppy campaign, including members of the ladies auxiliary.
You can purchase them at various locations in the city and at the Stratford Legion Branch 8 location at 804 Ontario Street, beside A&W.
