Shelburne Legion donates to local food bank, continuing tradition of support for nonprofits

July 30, 2026 · 0 Comments

Written By JOSHUA DRAKES

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 220 in Shelburne is continuing its tradition of supporting local organizations, presenting a $1,447 donation to the Shelburne Food Bank on July 27.

The donation was made using proceeds from the branch’s weekly Monday Night Bingo program. All funds raised through the bingo and the Legion’s 50/50 draws are directed to registered non-profit organizations, allowing the branch to provide financial support to community groups and charitable organizations.

Legion President Dan Sample said community support has become a central part of the organization’s mission.

“The Royal Canadian Legion was founded on the principle of creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for Canada’s veterans,” he said. “Over the years, that mission has expanded to include ongoing support for veterans and their families, our branch members, and the broader community.”

In addition to supporting the Shelburne Food Bank, Branch 220 regularly contributes to local organizations, including Shelburne Vets youth sports, the Shelburne Soccer Club, 164 Air Cadets and the Shelburne and District Fire Department.

Sample said the Legion remains committed to honouring veterans while strengthening the community through charitable giving, volunteerism and programs that benefit residents of all ages.

“Supporting our community is an important part of who we are,” he said. “We provide financial donations and in-kind support to many local organizations, including the Shelburne Food Bank, the Shelburne Vets youth sports organization, the Shelburne Soccer Club, 164 Air Cadets, and the Shelburne and District Fire Department. We also donate the use of our hall for fundraising events, helping community groups raise money for important local causes.”

Representatives from the Shelburne Food Bank accepted the cheque during the presentation. Representatives Bonnie Downey and Beth Brown met with Legion branch treasurer Katharine Ricci, second vice-president Kathleen McCauley and first vice-president Barry Lewis.

Sample said that the Shelburne Legion will continue to support local resources and initiatives in town, keeping to their mission of community support.

“At its heart, the Royal Canadian Legion is about service,” he said. “Honouring our veterans, supporting their families, strengthening our community, and creating a place where everyone feels welcome.”

Looking ahead, the Shelburne Legion will host the annual Fiddleville Reunion on Aug. 8 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

This event is a celebration of the classic Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Championship, which started in 1951. The championship garnered national acclaim and was broadcast coast to coast by CBC Radio. The championship faded in popularity over time and was discontinued after 2019 due to the pandemic and organizational challenges.

This musical event invites residents and visitors to the Legion for an afternoon of live entertainment to celebrate the legacy of the championship. Guests are also invited and encouraged to bring their own instruments to join in.

Food will be prepared and served by the Ladies Auxiliary, and guests are encouraged to bring food donations for the local food bank.