Canada's Poppy Donation Boxes Are Getting A 2020 Upgrade & Some Have Touchless Payments

You'll just need to tap to donate! 🇨🇦
Managing Editor, Canada

Now that’s a 2020 upgrade! Some of Canada’s poppy donation boxes have been revamped ahead of this year’s Remembrance Day.

Amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Royal Canadian Legion has revealed a brand new poppy donation box that accepts donations via contactless payments.

The tap-enabled boxes will accept money from contactless credit and debits cards, as well as mobile apps and Apple Pay.

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This means Canadians will be able to take a poppy and make the optional donation of $2 without having to come within two metres of a volunteer.

That’s not all that has changed, either.

The boxes also have a new design, “taking the shape of the headstones of our fallen” explains the Royal Canadian Legion.

Traditional donation trays will still be available across the country, as well as the 250 new tap-to-tribute boxes that will be distributed nationally.

The updated design will be up-and-running from October 30 in HSBC Bank Canada branches, select Royal Canadian Legion branches and some other locations.

  • Managing Editor

    Helena Hanson (she/her) is the Managing Editor of Canada for Narcity and MTL Blog, where she brings her expertise in dreamy, aspirational travel journalism to life. A first-class graduate of Cardiff University's School of Journalism, Helena has a passion for inspiring readers to discover the magic in their own backyards. Originally from the U.K., Helena has spent years uncovering hidden gems and must-see destinations across countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and more. Having lived in both Canada and Australia, she's become a seasoned expert in off-the-beaten-path adventures and bucket-list experiences that don't break the bank. Whether she's writing about things to do in Ottawa, Montreal, or her favourite spot—Disney World—Helena hopes to leave readers dreaming of their next adventure.

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