The Royal Canadian Legion has taken a bold step into the digital world by partnering with e-commerce giant Amazon, aiming to enhance its veterans’ fund and broaden its donor base. Since the launch of its Amazon.ca storefront on October 25, the legion has seen a surge in support, with nearly 10,000 orders for poppies pouring in.
Here are the key points surrounding this groundbreaking partnership:
- Online shoppers can now purchase lapel poppies on Amazon, with proceeds benefiting the legion’s Poppy Trust Fund for Canadian veterans and their families. Additionally, shoppers can buy items like “We Remember” lawn signs and Remembrance Day pins, all contributing to the noble cause.
- Nujma Bond, the legion’s national spokesperson, highlighted the importance of adapting to changing consumer habits. She emphasized the significance of leveraging digital platforms to reach a broader audience, particularly engaging with younger Canadians who are more active online.
- Al Plume, a retired member of the military and a legion branch in Trenton, Ontario, expressed optimism about the online store’s outreach potential, especially for veterans residing far from legion branches. Plume’s dedication stems from his personal experiences seeing veterans struggle with paperwork and accessing support services.
- Despite the positive impact of the Amazon partnership, some legion locations, like Branch 179 on Vancouver’s Commercial Drive, seemed unaware of the initiative. Holly Paddon, a poppy campaign co-ordinator, expressed her enthusiasm for the idea but wished for better communication about the online storefront within the legion’s network.
- In addition to the Amazon storefront, the legion also offers a diverse range of items for sale at poppystore.ca, further showcasing their commitment to supporting veterans through various channels.
In conclusion, the Royal Canadian Legion’s collaboration with Amazon signifies a significant step towards embracing modern technology to engage with a wider audience and bolster support for Canadian veterans. By utilizing e-commerce platforms and expanding their outreach efforts, the legion is ensuring that their noble cause resonates with people of all ages in the digital age. Let us continue to honor and support our veterans, not just on Remembrance Day but throughout the year.
