Not everyone is able to grab the helping hand extended by the B.C. government to businesses struggling during the pandemic.

Norm Scott, president of Prince Edward Branch # 91 of the Royal Canadian Legion in the Greater Victoria suburb of Langford, is dismayed that they will not receive any part of the $50 million announced April 8 in support of more than 14,000 restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, gyms and fitness centres.

鈥淟egions are not eligible for any COVID relief so far,鈥� Scott said. 鈥淲e fall under the federal Legion Act as a non-profit, but we鈥檙e not registered with the province as a non-profit,鈥� Scott explained. 鈥淭hat disallows us for being eligible for any funding from the province, but we do pay provincial taxes.鈥�

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鈥淪o for us to stay afloat, we鈥檙e struggling in the same boat as restaurants, bars, and small businesses that are struggling,鈥� Scott noted. 鈥淭he bills for hydro, gas, water and other expenses don鈥檛 stop coming in. We鈥檙e very disappointed we don鈥檛 qualify.鈥�

Scott points out that the Legion in Langford has been around for more than 90 years and continues to make significant contributions to veterans, families and the community through support programs, scholarships, sponsoring sports teams, and other initiatives.

鈥淲e know the province values Royal Canadian Legions, but this does not reflect that value,鈥� he said. 鈥淲e want the government to take a deeper look at supporting non-profit organizations so we can continue to do the work we do for veterans and families in need in our community.鈥�

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