The annual Poppy drive by the American Legion Auxiliary netted more than $9,500.
The Poppy has become a nationally known and recognized symbol of sacrifice to honor the men and women who served and died for our country in all wars.
Spokeswoman Lois Glosch said auxiliary members and veterans were stationed at various locations throughout The Villages and Lady Lake. And she said the effort was successful in large part because of the work and dedication from “the entire Legion family from Post 347.”
The money raised through the Poppy drive goes to support a variety of programs for veterans, including sponsoring service dogs for vets suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder; the Fisher House Foundation, a network of comfort homes where military families can stay at no cost when a loved one is receiving treatment; and Veterans Affairs hospitals.
Glosch added that members of the auxiliary would like to thank local businesses and residents who were kind enough to support the cause that will benefit so many veterans from throughout the local area.