The Tsawwassen branch of the Royal Canadian Legion has been thrown a lifeline.
Set to close at the end of the year due to a lack of funds, an anonymous donor has stepped forward and provided enough for the Branch 289 to stay afloat for another year.
President Gary Bain confirmed the donation was made under the provision he and the rest of the executive will stay on for another year.
“We wanted to somehow keep it open but I said we needed a lifeline. Well, when the Optimist’s story came out we got it and we’re very thankful. A lot of people were very upset when they heard we had to close,” said Bain.
Operating since the early 1990s, the branch, which rents its venue in Century Square on 56th Street, has been struggling to keep afloat. In an interview earlier this week when news broke about the legion facing closure, Bain noted a drop in membership and an aging volunteer base contributed to their problems. He noted landlord Century Group also came to the table to help out.
The coming year will be a great opportunity for the legion to rebound, he said.
The branch, which is open to people who don’t have military backgrounds, has tried to set itself apart by also making itself a popular musical venue with a good stage and sound system.
Bain said the legion is inviting residents to come check out the venue and also help out by joining or volunteering.
“We’d also like to get the word out we’d like more volunteers to help our vets,” he added.
The legion has been active in the community over the years, raising a lot of funds for various groups.
