By: Matt Weinagrden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
Source: Lakeshore News Reporter
The Royal Canadian Legion, Metropolitan Branch 594, has donated $1,000 to the Windsor Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) through its Buddy Check program, supporting the organization’s work with veterans.
The presentation was made by Dave Woodman, Veterans Service Officer and Buddy Check facilitator at Branch 594, to Paige Shepley of WETRA. The donation will help fund therapeutic riding programs and other initiatives aimed at assisting veterans living with Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries (PTSI).
The Buddy Check program is a peer-run, Legion-sponsored support initiative designed to provide veterans with a network of support and guidance for mental health and wellbeing. Participants are connected with trained volunteers who understand the unique challenges veterans face, including coping with PTSI, transitioning to civilian life, and maintaining emotional resilience.
“Supporting organizations like WETRA aligns with our mission to provide meaningful assistance to veterans in our community,” said Woodman. “These programs make a real difference by offering both therapeutic benefits and peer support to those who have served.”
The donation reinforces the Legion’s ongoing commitment to veteran support, highlighting the importance of community partnerships in providing accessible, veteran-centered programs.