REGINA — A program providing grants to veterans' organizations throughout the province has been met with enthusiastic response.
The Saskatchewan Veteran Service Club Support Program has been fully subscribed for 2024-25 in a single intake, providing grants of up to $30,000 to 81 organizations
Introduced in 2019-20, the program provides grants for repairs and upgrades, special events, operations, programs and activities to engage communities and advance the work and long-term sustainability of veterans' service organizations.
The program is delivered collaboratively by the Royal Canadian Legion, Saskatchewan Command, the Saskatchewan Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS) and the Government of Saskatchewan.
"The financial and moral support helps us to meet and achieve our challenging goals and to carry out our mission of assisting veterans in our communities and in promoting remembrance,” Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command Provincial president Carol Pedersen said.
“The Veterans Service Club Grant allows branches to do necessary updates and improve their facilities."
Since the program's inception, nearly $6 million has been allocated to 393 successful applicants in more than 115 communities across the province.
"[Saskatchewan ANAVETS] have benefited immensely,” said ANAVETS president Rick Taylor said.
“Each of our units have received new furnishings/appliances, upgrades to our buildings which include flooring, roofing, plumbing and heating. Thanks to the Legion for facilitating the program and as well to the Saskatchewan Government for funding it. The veterans, their families and friends appreciate what has been accomplished and will enjoy these enhancements for years."
In 2023-24, a total of 77 grants were awarded to clubs across Saskatchewan. Typically, at least two application intake periods were required each year. With increased awareness of the funding that is available, the program has been fully subscribed for 2024-25 through the first round. More information about the program, guidelines, applications and eligibility are available through the Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command at 306-525-8739 or [email protected].
