Sales of licence plates that promote support for members of the Canadian Forces have raised more than $220,000 since July, St. Albert’s MLA announced Friday.
St. Albert MLA Stephen Khan announced the funds raised since the “Support Our Troops” licence plates went on sale at Patricia Park in Griesbach Village in Edmonton. The park has a memorial dedicated to Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.
“Our sales have started to rise every day,” said Khan, who as service minister has Alberta registries as part of his portfolio.
About 4,000 plates have already been purchased since they became available July 22.
Khan said the plates recognize the members of the Canadian Forces who help protect this country’s rights and freedom, including those who have died to do so.
The image on the plate was designed to honour the first four Alberta-based military members who died in Afghanistan. Khan noted all four were part of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.
“As Albertans and Canadians we all wear our poppies with so much pride at this time of year,” Khan said. “I believe that this licence plate can be like wearing our poppies all year round.”
Lt.-Col. Mark Connolly highlighted the programs and spoke of the appreciation members of the military have for the support shown by Albertans.
“When I see the ‘Support Our Troops’ licence plates, I’m reminded of how fortunate I am to be stationed in Alberta,” Connolly said.
The plates are $75 plus a $9 registration fee, with $55 of that going towards four funds. Those funds are the Military Families Fund, the Soldier On Fund, the Hospital Comforts Fund and the Canadian Forces Personnel Assistance Fund.
Connolly in particular noted the Military Families Fund, which he said can help provide emergency financial assistance, and the Soldier On Fund, which helps support ill and injured military members maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
