Poppy campaign continues til November 10 (CHAT NEWS TODAY file image)

By Brian Konrad

Annual Legion Poppy Drive underway

Nov 2, 2023 | 12:09 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — Flowers usually bloom in spring, but in Canada, there’s one flower that doesn’t appear until this time of the year.

It’s the poppy, and the annual poppy campaign from the Royal Canadian Legion is in full swing.

Volunteers and cadets are at the tables in 5 locations in the city on the weekends, while others are distributing poppy collection boxes along 10 different routes in Medicine Hat.

Branch 17 President Sheila Donner is in charge again this year, but says the campaign pretty much runs itself thanks to the volunteers.

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While it’s not new, Donner says people will be able to purchase a small black pin again this year that fixes the problem of the traditional stick pin poppy falling off.

“I think it originated at a legion branch in Calgary a number of years ago,” says Donner, noting the Dominion office took the idea and expanded it across the country.

With the passing of many veterans there’s an increasing need for volunteers and Donner encourages people to spend time at one of the tables across the city this year.

She says it’s perfect for those who enjoy sitting and chatting with people.

“I’m very busy but usually at the end of the day if there’s an opening somewhere I sit and it’s nice to see people and chat with them and tell them what it’s all about,” says Donner.

If you would be able to volunteer time to serve at a table for a few hours, you can contact the Robertson Memorial Branch #17 Royal Canadian Legion at 403 527 7184.