Four poppy boxes stolen from city businesses

It’s “disheartening.” So says Lethbridge Poppy Chairperson Pat McIntosh regarding four poppy boxes stolen from city businesses between last Saturday and Tuesday.

“Thefts such as these are disheartening given that the public has chosen to donate in support of veterans, yet those donations won’t reach the veterans of this community,” McIntosh said in an email to The Herald.

“Although one box has been found and returned, the money was gone, and the box irreparably damaged.”

Lethbridge Police confirmed they are aware of the incidents and video surveillance is being reviewed.

Each year during the annual poppy campaign, poppy boxes are placed in businesses and organizations in Lethbridge, Stirling, Raymond and Magrath by volunteers of the Royal Canadian Legion General Stewart Branch #4.

“These businesses generously permit the Legion to have poppy boxes in their premises,” McIntosh said. “Without these participating businesses, we couldn’t have a successful campaign.”

“It is a sad day when donations made to assist those veterans in need, the veterans who fought for our freedom are stolen away from them,” said Kent Perry, Legion branch president.

“We will find a solution to this dilemma so that is does not continue. In the meantime, our volunteers are changing out the poppy boxes on a daily basis to mitigate the losses.”