By Tom Mark

Vernon Poppy Sales Could Use More Volunteers

Nov 6, 2017 | 8:25 AM

Members of the Vernon Legion are working hard with poppy sales as Remembrance Day approaches.

Legion President Bill Balcaen says they hope to raise 40 to 50 thousand dollars this year.

“We can always use more volunteers to take care of some of the spots in town where we place people with the poppy trays. But the donations have been real steady.”

Balcaen says like other communities this year it has been difficult to find people who can help out.

“And the word has gone out and we’re getting some response but it just seems like it’s tough for people to donate that kind of time, especially mid week. Weekends, naturally Friday Saturday usually are stronger days for us.”

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Anyone who can help with sales can contact the Legion on 25th Avenue.

All the money raised goes to help local veterans and their families.

“What we have is veterans and wives and children of veterans even if they need extra help or if they’re financially stressed we can helm them out and still retain their dignity and their pride.”

Because this year marks the 100th anniversary of Vimy Ridge, the legion is also handing out poppy seeds from poppies in the Vimy region.

by Tom Mark