GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. The idea caught on, and has grown around the world, inspiring hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. The Legion Foundation is inviting donors to have an impact this GivingTuesday, November 28, 2023.

Every Veteran deserves a home

Did you know that according to Statistics Canada, only 35% of the 63,845 Veterans living in British Columbia have reached out to Veterans Affairs Canada for help? While not all Veterans need assistance, there are many who struggle to find the care they need.

The Legion Foundation BC/Yukon recently started a new program called Operation: Leave the Streets Behind, specifically to help Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. In collaboration with local Legion Branches, the Legion Foundation is providing Comfort Bags and Apartment Kits. Comfort Bags are backpacks filled with essential items to help Veterans who are waiting for housing or not quite ready for permanent accommodation. They include warm clothing, toiletries, and even some small food items. They are personalized based on gender, so women’s bags include feminine hygiene products. Apartment Kits are packages that contain everything a Veteran would need when moving into their new home, such as kitchen items, bathroom essentials, bedding, and even basic cleaning products.

George’s Story

Nobody chooses to become homeless and George, a Canadian Armed Forces Veteran, is no different. Life took an unexpected turn for George during the COVID pandemic when he stopped working to care for a close family member who was ill.

Unfortunately, after the family member passed away, George faced yet another loss when his partner left him. With no one to share the rent, he found himself unable to keep up with the payments and he ended up living in his car. George reached out to his local Legion Branch for help.

A Comfort Bag from the Legion Foundation helped provide some provisions but more importantly, it let George know that someone cares. With the support of the Legion Branch Service Officer and other agencies, George has applied for benefits through Veterans Affairs Canada and has even started applying for jobs. He is hoping to have permanent housing soon and when he does, he knows that an Apartment Kit will be waiting to welcome him home.

This GivingTuesday, we invite you to join us in making a difference in the lives of the men and women who have served our country. If you have already joined us – thank you!