Rumours that Merritt’s Royal Canadian Legion will soon be closing its doors are just that, rumours, says local branch president Maureen Dixon.

While declining enrollment and mounting costs have forced at least 64 legions across Canada to shut down since 2006, the local chapter has not given up yet.

“The Merritt Royal Canadian Legion is not closing its doors today or tomorrow,” said Dixon. “We are not alone in struggling to keep our doors open, and this may happen in the future.”

The Merritt Royal Canadian Legion Branch 96 has been an integral part of the Merritt community since 1928 when it first received its charter under the British Empire Service League, said Dixon.

Over the years, the legion’s fundraising efforts have supported local programs such as Little Britches Rodeo, minor hockey, Meals on Wheels, the food bank, soup kitchen, as well as the local Army and Navy Cadet programs, besides others, she said.

Just this year, the local legion managed to raise close to $9,000 through poppy sales, which will go towards bursaries, the cadet programs and support for veterans in the area.

“The primary focus of the Royal Canadian Legion is in support of our veterans and their dependants,” said Dixon. “Now the focus is on the newly returned soldiers from Afghanistan and other world conflicts and the need is even greater.”

Yet, while the need for support increases, younger veterans are opting not to join legions and older veterans of the Second World War and Korean War are dying off.

In an effort not to follow the national trend of disappearing legions, Dixon said the local branch is restructuring some of their operations. Service in the lounge will be handled by volunteers for the most part and the legion will actively look for opportunities to rent out their hall for parties and other functions, she said.

The legion is also looking for new members.

“The old adage about having to be related to someone who belonged to the military before you could join is no longer true,” said Dixon. “Anyone can join and we hope to gain many fine contributing members.”

“It is up to the members and friends of Branch 96 to help keep this branch viable – a handful of dedicated members cannot do this on their own.”

Anyone interested in joining can call 250-378-5631, guests are welcome too, says Dixon.