The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #11 is urging the public to be cautious after discovering a scam targeting local businesses in the days leading up to Remembrance Day. President Bob Frost, along with other members of the Legion, is raising awareness about individuals posing as Legion volunteers and attempting to sell wreaths under false pretenses.
The scam came to light when a legitimate Legion volunteer visited a local business to deliver poppy and wreath documentation, only to be informed that another individual had been there the previous day, claiming to sell wreaths on behalf of the Legion. The fraudulent individual, who had no proper documentation aside from a picture of a wreath, told the business they would return on Friday to collect funds.
Frost expressed concern, emphasizing that the perpetrators are attempting to take advantage of the Remembrance Day season to collect money intended for veterans' support. “It’s disheartening, and actually it’s kind of disgraceful," Frost said. "Using a day as important as Remembrance Day for scams is unacceptable.”
How to identify legitimate volunteers
Frost has assured the public that all official Legion volunteers distributing wreaths and poppies in the community will be clearly identified. They will wear a volunteer ribbon and carry proper documentation, including a list of available wreath sizes and their costs. He stressed that Legion volunteers are prepared to provide identification upon request and warned that anyone attempting to sell wreaths without this documentation or identification should be viewed with suspicion.
Morden Police and Winkler Police Informed
In response to the scam, Morden’s police service has been alerted, and Frost has contacted Winkler Police to ensure awareness of the issue. The scam, while first detected in Morden, could spread to other nearby areas, such as Winkler, Frost warned. He urged the public to be cautious and report any suspicious individuals or activities to their local police departments.
Legitimate poppy fund contributions
Frost explained that funds raised through the Legion’s official poppy and wreath sales go directly to improving the day-to-day lives of veterans. These contributions support essential services and equipment, such as hospital beds and elevators in Legion buildings, and must be approved by the provincial command to ensure proper use.
"This scam not only steals from veterans but also undermines the public’s trust in a cause that means so much to our community," Frost said, encouraging people to stay vigilant and ensure that their contributions are going to legitimate Legion initiatives.
The Legion emphasizes the importance of Remembrance Day and hopes the public will continue to support its cause while being mindful of potential scams.
If you suspect any suspicious activity related to poppy or wreath sales, please contact your local police service immediately.
