The Port Coquitlam Legion Branch #133 is opening its doors to families now that its liquor licence allows for minors.
The new licence, which went into effect last month, will mean that children of all ages can join their families at the Legion between noon and 9 p.m. for a meal and, for mom and dad, a pint.
"When we think of veterans we're thinking World War 2 veterans, Korean War veterans, but we as a community are forgetting about the young veterans who are coming back from Afghanistan who have wives and young children," said Irene Brown, the Legion's zone commander for New Westminster and district. (The Port Moody Legion Branch #119 is not planning to apply for a new licence to allow minors.)
"We're not suggesting we will become a babysitting service but we feel as though we are isolating those new veterans by not providing a new opportunity for their families to come out with them and participate with them in activities that are given out in the community."
To celebrate the new licence, the Legion will host a family day on Sept. 6 complete with children's activities and games. The Legion is also revamping its menu to include a kids' menu and more meals instead of fast-food burgers.
Brown, who is also an early childhood educator, said many of the Legion's volunteers have also worked extensively with children in the past "so we're really looking forward to this brand new venture."
Members have already taken advantage of the new licence, including one resident of the RJ Kent seniors' housing complex who was able to celebrate her birthday with her grandchildren at the Legion.
But it's also hoped that the new licence will draw more people - veterans and non-veterans alike - to join the Legion, which Brown emphasized is "not a bar."
"I think the old picture of the Legion of a few older people sharing comradeship, we need to move on from that image," Brown said. "You no longer have to be affiliated with a member of the military in order to get membership in the branch - it's open to anyone."
For more information visit www.pocolegion.ca.
