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Nanaimo and area legions have a share of $1.5 million in provincial funding to offset COVID-19 loses. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)
veterans

B.C. & Yukon legions receive $1.5 million to offset pandemic loses

Jun 2, 2021 | 12:03 PM

VICTORIA — New relief funding will help B.C. legions continue providing community services.

The Royal Canadian Legion B.C./Yukon Command will receive $1.5 million in one-time support to help offset the impacts of the pandemic and recently-removed restrictions. Legions across the two areas serve roughly 47,000 people.

“Legions play an important role in our communities, caring for the people who have served our nation,” Premier John Horgan said. “Our government committed to finding a solution, and we’re delivering support to ensure legions can keep serving veterans, their families and our communities.”

Legions generate a significant portion of revenue from food and beverage service, which was disrupted by public health orders.

The $1.5 million mirrors the average grant provided to businesses under the Circuit Breaker Business Relief Grant and aligns with support provided by the federal government.

The Royal Canadian Legion B.C./Yukon Command has 145 branches that serves veterans, ex-service personnel, seniors, youth and many aspects of community life.

Two legions are located in Nanaimo, while a branch is also situated in Lantzville.

— with files from Aaron Schulze

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