MONTREAL — The Royal Canadian Legion branch in Verdun, Montreal, faces an uncertain future

as it meets weekly in a rented community center space, far from the historic brick building it sold more than a decade ago due to skyrocketing maintenance costs. President Darlene Harrison repeatedly hears the same concern from members: “When will we have our own home again?” But with rental costs climbing—recently quoted at a staggering $6,700 monthly, excluding utilities—answers seem elusive.

“We can't cover these expenses without generating enough funds,” Harrison explained during a recent phone interview. The struggles aren’t limited to Verdun. Across Canada, many legion branches are grappling with similar issues as inflation rises and older infrastructures require more maintenance.

In Grenfell, Saskatchewan, the legion recently decided to sell its once-vibrant armor facility.

President Ken Box noted, “We're dealing with aging membership and aging buildings. We only have about 85 members, most of whom no longer live nearby, making retaining the building impractical.” He acknowledges that fundraising efforts, aimed to maintain their facilities, detract from their mission of supporting veterans and community initiatives.

Struggling to keep afloat, other legions are resorting to fundraising events like spaghetti dinners and bingo nights.

The Cape Breton town of Donkin, N.S., has faced significant setbacks since Tropical Storm Fiona wreaked havoc on its legion hall in 2022, leading to increased insurance costs. However, through community support—like a successful dart league and generous donations—they have managed to stabilize their finances. President Wayne Boutilier proudly states, “We’ve paid off our debts, but the regular bills still persist.”

Even larger legions aren’t immune to financial troubles.

The Orleans branch in eastern Ottawa boasts 800 to 900 members but had to crowdfund for a roof repair in 2020. “Our hall rental income isn’t keeping pace with rising maintenance costs,” president Wyn Fournier shared. "It's a vicious cycle."

Though some branches are facing challenges, the Royal Canadian Legion insists these issues impact only a small fraction of its overall membership.

While the organization reports a net growth in membership—with two new branches recently opening—the pandemic's impact remains palpable. Temporary closures depleted financial reserves, and though stability has returned, many legions are still working to recover lost funds and bring members back for in-person events.

The Kingsway Branch in Edmonton has emerged from the brink of closure, but financial chairman Ron Wills reveals ongoing struggles.

"We're still living paycheck to paycheck," he said, expressing fears that selling their building might become inevitable.

Legion fundraising is tightly regulated.

With the annual poppy campaign funds earmarked solely for veterans, leaving branches to rely on membership dues and community events to meet financial obligations.

Despite the hurdles, many legions are embracing positive changes.

In Verdun, Harrison’s initiative to recruit younger members is breathing new life into the organization, generating fresh ideas and enthusiasm. She emphasizes that joining the legion is open to everyone—not just veterans—welcoming all who wish to volunteer and help their communities. “We need more hands on deck!” she exclaimed.

As these legions navigate the twilight of their existence, community engagement and support could be the emerging lifelines.

Will you step up and help keep the spirit of our legions alive? The question remains—are we at risk of losing these cherished establishments forever?