Although the Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Campaign runs publicly from the last Friday in October to sunset on Remembrance Day, it truly is a year-round, nationwide mission, run by an army of volunteers. At the heart of the mission is the Legion’s commitment to provide essential services and support to Veterans across Canada.

“The Poppy Fund is critical in filling gaps in care for Veterans,” explained Brian Harris, who has been the Royal Canadian Legion’s Ontario Command Provincial Poppy Chair for the last five years. He is quick to point out that it’s also about honouring their service and ensuring they receive the support they deserve. “We have to take care of our Veterans. They made a pledge to us, and we owe it to them.”

The Poppy Fund is a public trust fund that ensures Veterans are recognized, in many ways, for their service. At Perley Health, that includes purchasing essential medical equipment that dramatically improves their quality of life.

"Perley Health has some really unique and cool programs,” Brian shared, “but the thing that is impressed upon me the most is the entire staff, and how engaged they are with the Veterans.”

Brian also emphasizes the importance of community support in sustaining the Poppy Fund. “You don’t have to be a Legion member to get involved. Every contribution, big or small, helps make a difference in the lives of our Veterans. Without the support of volunteers and donors, we couldn’t accomplish what we do.”