theglobeandmail.com
Canadian Legions Face Financial Crisis
Royal Canadian Legion branches across Canada face financial struggles due to rising costs and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing some to sell buildings while others fight to stay afloat.
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Canada
Labour MarketFundraisingFinancial HardshipCommunity OrganizationsVeteran SupportAging Infrastructure
Royal Canadian LegionVerdun LegionGrenfell LegionDonkin LegionOrleans LegionKingsway Branch (Edmonton)
Darlene HarrisonKen BoxWayne BoutilierWyn FournierRon Wills
- What challenges are Royal Canadian Legion branches facing across Canada?
- The Royal Canadian Legion branches in Verdun, Montreal; Grenfell, Saskatchewan; Donkin, Nova Scotia; Orleans, Ottawa; and Edmonton are facing financial difficulties due to rising costs, aging infrastructure, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- What strategies are legions employing to overcome their financial challenges?
- Legions are employing various strategies to address their financial issues, including membership drives, community fundraising, and seeking additional income streams such as renting their facilities. Some are optimistic about the future, citing increased community support and younger membership.
- What are some of the reasons behind the financial struggles faced by these branches?
- Many legions are struggling to maintain their buildings due to high maintenance and utility costs, forcing some to sell their properties and rent cheaper spaces, while others are resorting to extensive fundraising to keep their doors open.
- How are the financial difficulties impacting the legions' ability to fulfill their mission?
- The financial challenges faced by legions are impacting their ability to support veterans and their communities. Fundraising efforts are often consumed by building expenses rather than community programs.
- What is the overall picture of the Royal Canadian Legion's financial health, according to the organization itself?
- While some legions are struggling, the Royal Canadian Legion reports that these cases represent a small percentage of their branches. Overall membership is reportedly growing, with two new branches having recently opened.