Dear Comrades,
I am pleased to share that The Royal Canadian Legion is providing significant financial support to assist the victims and families affected by the recent tragedy at CFB Wainwright in Alberta. Our approach will help with both immediate and longer-term requirements. This is directly in keeping with our pledge to support Veterans and their families in times of need, through the Poppy Trust Fund.
The Legion’s Alberta-NWT Command will continue to offer its tremendous on-the-ground assistance to families which began in the immediate aftermath. They will provide for things like travel, accommodations, and food; as long as required. Thanks to the support of your Branches, the Command indicates their Poppy funds are sufficient to handle the current requests.
After conversations with the Canadian Armed Force’s Royal Chaplain Service (RCCChS), which is in direct and ongoing contact with affected families across the country; we understand that immediate needs are being met. The Legion’s financial support at a national level will therefore cover emerging requirements including mental health and caregiver support. Our Dominion Executive Council has approved an amount up to $250,000 to be released in stages. An immediate $100,000 will be disbursed to the Together We Stand Foundation, a not-for-profit entity. This foundation works with the RCCChS to ensure that 100% of what is provided will go directly to support those impacted. Subsequent disbursements of $50,000 will be made if and as needed.
Some members of the CAF sustained severe injuries, and as of this week, over two dozen remained in hospital. It is anticipated that longer term treatment and assistance for the injured and their families will be required. I am confident our strong approach will help ensure that all families receive what they need now and in the future. We will continue to monitor this situation with our military and others and adjust our course as we learn more.
Our thoughts remain with the injured, those who died, their comrades and their families.
We Will Remember Them.
Sharon McKeown
Dominion President
The Royal Canadian Legion
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