Chris and Joy Hopkins recently came to talk to Faversham Rotary Club about the work of the Royal British Legion and the Annual Poppy Appeal.
The Royal British Legion supports members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families. That support might be for physical and mental wellbeing, for financial and employment support, or providing local community connections.
Chris and Joy both have military connections and Chris was asked to be a local Poppy Appeal Organiser (PAO) so he volunteered Joy as well and they have been the PAOs for the Faversham District for a number of years now.
Their role includes ordering the poppies and collection tins and distributing them to about 150 local shops, restaurants, pubs & businesses. Local schools are also involved. Chris & Joy also arrange a stall in Faversham Market – often accompanied by a tank!
Up to June 2023, more than £180,000 has been raised in Faversham and the Annual Poppy Appeal is a significant fund-raiser for all aspects of the Legion’s work.
This year’s Poppy Appeal will be from 26th October to 12th November, the two weeks leading up to Remembrance Sunday. There will be collection points at local supermarkets, looked after by teams of volunteers, including Scouts and Army and Air Training Corps Cadets.
Visit www.britishlegion.org.uk to find out more about the work of the Royal British Legion and how you can volunteer to help.