This article has been provided by the office MPP Brian Saunderson.
If you’re looking for “the hub” of most small to midsize communities, look no further than the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.
It’s true.
From fundraisers to dinners to raffles, the local Legion and it’s dedicated executive and members, are either setting up chairs, cooking and preparing food for large groups, or are seeing where and how their support is needed throughout their community.
Seeing the various members and committees in action is watching the true spirit of volunteerism in motion. They take pride in everything they get involved in.
We also know, supporting the Royal Canadian Legion is an investment in community.
For example, in Creemore, at Branch 397, an Ontario Trillium Foundation's Capital grant of $150,000 has allowed the busy building to open its doors even wider, making the facility fully accessible to all. A brightened and larger washroom area also welcomes members, guests, and visitors. I was there for the unveiling and saw firsthand what changes were made, and how inviting the renovations are for all.
Also, the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 508 in Everett received $150,000 in OTF funding to improve its facility.
This funding will help to ensure our communities have safe and ready access to critical programming, activities, and spaces.
Legions are all long-standing pillars in our communities and this funding will allow them to continue making a positive difference in the populations they serve. The OTF’s Capital grant stream helps to improve the infrastructure Ontarians enjoy.
Our Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Neil Lumsden agrees.
“Non-profit organizations across Ontario deliver programming that makes a difference – whether its helping people train for new careers, learn new things, or simply connect with those around them. That’s why capital grant support is so important. This funding will help ensure these spaces remain the heart of communities across our province.”
I joined the Collingwood Legion when elected MPP, because I saw just how much our Legions do for our communities.
Last month I was invited to flip pancakes for a fundraiser. (The pancakes sold like hotcakes, by the way)
The proceeds for the event were donated to the Legion Branch 281 in Clarksburg. The funds will assist in the costs of erecting a new First Responders Memorial which will be located to the right of the existing Cenotaph marker in Thornbury.
The unveiling of the new memorials is scheduled for June 2.
Yet another example of community service.
So, why wait for November to salute the Legion?
As we welcome a new season and warmer weather throughout Simcoe-Grey, look for events hosted by your local Royal Canadian Legion.
There are 11 in our riding.
All welcome your support because all will offer it if needed.
Simcoe-Grey Royal Canadian Legions
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 421 Military Association
55 Tecumseth St N,
Beeton, ON
L0G 1A0
(905) 729-2911
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 329 Military Association
25 Richmond St E,
Tottenham, ON
L0G 1W0
(905) 936-4061
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 171 Military Association
111 Dufferin St S,
Alliston, ON
L9R 1E9
(705) 435-7922
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 499 Military Association
15 Fraser St,
Angus,ON
L0M 1B0
(705) 424-5711
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 508 Military Association
6190 County Rd 13,
Everett, ON
L0M 1J0
(705) 435-5769
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 281 Military Association
202 Marsh St,
Clarksburg, ON
N0H 1J0
(519) 599-3555
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 559 Military Association
8439 Main Lisle St,
Lisle, ON
L0M 1M0
(705) 424-6879
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 63 Military Association
490 Ontario St,
Collingwood, ON
L9Y 1N6
705) 445-3780
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 397 Military Association
27 Wellington St W,
Creemore, ON
L0M 1G0
(705) 466-2202
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 457 Military Association
7149 ON-26,
Stayner, ON
L0M 1S0
(705) 428-3809
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 516 Military Association
5357 County Rd 9,
New Lowell, ON
L0M 1N0
(705) 424-1621