The basement of the General Vanier 234 Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion in Montreal’s Pierrefonds-Roxboro is nearly ready for its grand reopening.
President Martin Bruyere explains that the space, once fully equipped with new furniture and dartboards, will soon be available for the public to rent.
“It’s a major milestone for us,” said Bruyere.
He says the space will generate income, which is crucial for keeping the branch open.
“Without that income, we can’t keep this building running. We can’t keep running as a branch.”
After an electrical fire severely damaged the building in 2022, renovations have been a slow process. While both the main floor and basement are now in good shape, the second floor remains in need of repairs.
“Are we in financial straits? Yeah.” said Bruyere. “We don’t bring in enough money. We’re barely staying afloat at the moment.”
The legion, like many others, depends on donations and community support.
Last November, Bruyere says their poppy campaign brought in $32,000. However, that money does not go to the legion, instead it goes to supporting veterans.
Bruyere says renovating the second floor will cost roughly $70,000, an expense that the legion cannot afford.
First vice-president Hubert Roy says they’re also taking into account accessibility costs.
“We also have to install the chair lift.”
The legion has served the veterans in the community for more than 65 years.
While some branches are struggling to keep its doors open, Bruyere says he is hoping his branch will remain open for years to come.
“We have lost on the Island of Montreal in the last few years, we’ve lost three or four branches.”
