By Matt Weinagrden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
Branch #594 donated $1000 to the Essex and Kent Scottish Caring Cupboard to support our reserve soldiers and sailors experiencing food insecurity. The funds were raised by our volunteers working at OLG Bingo.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #594 and local youth hockey teams have come together this holiday season to support veterans and military families in need, raising both funds and awareness through community-driven initiatives.
Branch #594 recently donated $1,000 to the Essex and Kent Scottish Caring Cupboard, a program that provides support to reserve soldiers and sailors experiencing food insecurity. The donation was made possible thanks to the dedication of Legion volunteers working at OLG Bingo, whose efforts over the past year have helped raise critical funds for military families in the community.
“Supporting those who serve our country is something our volunteers take pride in every day,” said a Legion spokesperson. “We’re grateful to everyone who contributed to this initiative. Their generosity ensures that families in need receive support, especially during the holiday season.”
In addition to the Legion’s contribution, local youth hockey players played an active role in giving back. The U13 hockey team, joined by the U10, U14, and U18 AAA teams as well as the U13 LaSalle Sabres, participated in the Poppy Drive 2025 by wearing poppy helmet stickers during their games. The collective efforts of the teams raised $500 to support Canadian veterans.
“These young athletes are learning the importance of giving back,” said a coach with the U13 team. “It’s wonderful to see the hockey community come together for such an important cause. They’re not just playing hockey—they’re showing respect and gratitude for those who have served.”
The poppy campaign is an annual tradition that serves as both a symbol of remembrance and a practical means of supporting veterans and military families. Wearing poppies and collecting donations helps ensure that veterans facing financial or food insecurity can access the resources they need.
Through these initiatives, both the Legion and the hockey community are fostering a culture of service and civic responsibility, teaching young people the value of supporting their community while directly helping those who have served Canada.
With the combined contributions from the Legion volunteers and the hockey teams, the programs will provide vital assistance to veterans and their families in the Essex and Kent region, particularly during the challenging winter months. The events underscore how local organizations and residents can come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to serving their country.
