Lest we forget? How Legacy donations to Australia's brave veterans are expected to fall by up to 50 per cent - because volunteers can't sell badges in 2020
- Legacy has supported widows and families of Australian veterans for 78 years
- Charity raised more than $3m last year but is expecting a 25 to 50% decrease
- COVID and government restrictions are preventing face-to-face fundraising
- NSW Acting Minister for Veterans Geoff Lee said nothing will stop Legacy Week
Legacy has been supporting the widows and families of Australian war veterans for 78 years with its annual badge-selling campaign - but it will be tougher in 2020.
Tens of thousands of volunteers usually rally for the annual event with ADF members, schoolkids, cadet and scout groups selling Legacy bears, badges, pens, wristbands and other merchandise on the streets across Australia.
But when Legacy Week is launched on Monday, that won't be happening.
Volunteers usually rally for the annual event with ADF members, schoolkids, cadet and scout groups selling merchandise on the streets across Australia (pictured, in 2019)
The charity raised more than $3million last year but is expecting a 25 to 50 per cent decrease in donations this year due to COVID restrictions (badges sold by Legacy)
The charity raised more than $3million last year but is expecting a 25 to 50 per cent decrease in donations this year due to COVID and government restrictions preventing face-to-face fundraising.
Instead, it's asking community supporters and corporations to buy the traditional merchandise from their local Legacy club or visit an official online shop selling Legacy merchandise.
NSW Acting Minister for Veterans Geoff Lee said nothing would stop Legacy Week going ahead.
Share this article
'The current social restrictions should not stop us from supporting this very worthwhile cause,' he said.
'Thousands of Australian men and women are currently serving overseas and Legacy stands ready to assist their families when needed.'
Legacy has held a badge day since 1942 to raise funds to support the families of veterans who have died, been severely injured or left with mental health issues.
'This year will be tough with the reduced opportunity to do any face-to-face fundraising and inability to engage with the public but the health of the community and our many volunteers and supporters is more important,' Legacy President Gregory Wrate said.
'I am asking Australians to consider donating online to allow us to continue providing financial, educational and emotional support to our beneficiaries.'
Volunteers help out to sell the badges or teddy bears for Australian soldiers and their families (pictured in Sydney in 2019)
The money raised helps about 60,000 people with counselling, housing, medical treatment, advocacy and social support.
When soldier Major Michael Wiltshire died from a brain tumour at the age of 42, Legacy supported his widow Kerrie and two children, James and Emily.
'It could have all gone so differently without Legacy's support and influence,' James said.
'We have had many strong role models come into our lives. I'm currently applying to join the Air Force and I doubt I would have had the confidence to go for it, if it wasn't for the encouragement of Legacy.'
To donate online go to www.legacyweek.com.au.
Comments 0
Share what you think
No comments have so far been submitted. Why not be the first to send us your thoughts, or debate this issue live on our message boards.
