The Abbotsford branch of the Royal Canadian Legion this year raised about $55,000 from its poppy campaign.

Branch president Geoff Hosking said this amount is about $3,000 higher than last year, which he attributes, in part, to the outpouring of support following the killings of two soldiers in Ontario and Quebec in October.

Attendance was also up considerably at Remembrance Day ceremonies in Abbotsford on Nov. 11. Hosking said the crowd was estimated to be 3,000 – double the usual attendance.

Money raised from the sale of poppy pins goes into a fund to support veterans with costs such as hearing aids and eyeglasses. It also provides bursaries for their family members and helps support local army and air cadets.

The money raised in Abbotsford stays in the community.