Shelburne Legion Launches 2025 Poppy Campaign to Support Veterans
The Royal Canadian Legion has officially started its 2025 Poppy Campaign across Canada to raise funds for the Poppy Fund in preparation for Remembrance Day.
Purpose of the Poppy Campaign
Chris Skalozub, District E Parade Marshal and local veteran, emphasized the importance of fundraising at this time to provide essential support to veterans and their families.
“The Poppy Campaign is for our Poppy Fund, which is for our veterans and their families. It all comes back to the community because all the money that everyone contributes comes from the community.”
How the Poppy Fund Helps Veterans
The fund acts as an emergency resource assisting veterans with various needs, such as hospital visits, acquiring medical equipment, or home repairs.
“It’s an emergency fund that helps our veterans with anything they need. Say you need to go to the hospital, you need medical equipment, or something needs doing in your house, it comes out of the Poppy Fund.”
Service Dogs Program
One vital program supported by the Poppy Fund is the provision of service dogs to veterans. These dogs alert owners to PTSD triggers, notify others during distress, and assist with medication reminders. They offer veterans, especially those living alone, loyal companionship.
Training each service dog costs approximately $30,000, a significant expense covered entirely by the Poppy Fund.
Local Campaign Kickoff
In Shelburne, the Poppy Campaign began on Saturday, November 2, 2025. This campaign has a long tradition, running for more than a century and even predating the current form of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Author's summary: The 2025 Poppy Campaign in Shelburne raises crucial funds through the community to support veterans’ urgent needs and lifelong assistance programs like service dogs.