With Remembrance Day just over two weeks away, the Royal Canadian Legion started its poppy sales campaign in Saskatchewan Friday morning.
Donation boxes have been set up in businesses across the province to kick off the Legion’s largest annual fundraiser.
There is no set donation limit, with some people contributing large bills and others just a few nickels.
“We want everybody to wear them,” said Chad Wagner, executive director of the Royal Canadian Legion’s Saskatchewan branch.
“We want to show it’s a symbolism of remembrance and it’s a pledge from everyone to never forget those who have fallen.”
The Royal Canadian Legion said the poppy campaign brings in about $1 million across Saskatchewan every year.
Wagner told 980 CJME’s morning show the money goes directly towards programming for veterans and those returning from Canada’s most recent wars.
“Whether it’s a transition program or a service dog program … it can even help them if they’re struggling with addictions or homelessness,” he said.
Poppies are worn on the left lapel, close to the heart. In the past, veterans and the Legion have discouraged people from using separate pins in the centre of the poppies to keep them in place.
The campaign will conclude on Remembrance Day, Nov. 11.
Wagner said anyone having trouble finding a poppy can contact their local Legion.