Legion’s plea over ‘remote’ Poppy Appeal
THE Royal British Legion says “every poppy counts” as it faces increased pressure as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The charity, which provides support to service and ex-service personnel, says the crisis means the Armed Forces community is in dire need of urgent help and support.
Bristolians are this year being asked to embrace a new, remote way of supporting the Poppy Appeal, including taking part in a virtual Poppy Run, purchasing poppies by post, or displaying a printed poppy in their window.
Esther Denton, community fundraiser, said: “Like so many things this year, the appeal has to adapt to the threat of Covid-19 and we are asking the public to support us like never before, because every poppy counts.
“Whilst the pandemic has impacted the ways in which we deliver the Poppy Appeal in Bristol, our community of staff, volunteers, partners and suppliers have been working together to ensure that the 2020 Poppy Appeal is able to go ahead and we can all take part in Remembrance activity.
“People may have to do something different to support the Poppy Appeal this year, but every poppy counts so we are asking people to please support in any way you can.”
The money raised in 2020 will enable the legion to continue its vital work delivering life-long support to service and ex-service personnel and their families through hardships, injuries and bereavements.
The Royal British Legion’s director of fundraising Claire Rowcliffe said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has had an overwhelming impact on people’s livelihoods and way of life, leaving some in the Armed Forces community in dire need of urgent help and support.
“The legion’s work is more vital than ever as we support our community through additional hardships from those struggling with social isolation, financial difficulties and unemployment, to those who have lost loved ones or are facing the threat of homelessness. Every poppy counts.”
Fundraising ideas for this year’s Appeal can be found at www.rbl.org. uk/poppyappeal