Updated: October 24, 2026 at 1:47 p.m. EDT (Toronto) The Royal Canadian Legion launched its 2026 National Poppy Campaign on Saturday, 24 October, adding a contactless donation option that lets participating branch volunteers collect contributions through compatible smartphones. The Legion’s launch announcement , issued in Ottawa, says donors can tap a debit card, credit card or digital wallet on a volunteer’s phone. The technology is being introduced at participating branches and Legion provincial command offices, alongside existing donation methods. Global News’ coverage confirmed the campaign’s launch and new permanent 24 October start date in an interview with Legion national spokesperson Nujma Bond. This year’s phone-based fundraising rollout is supported by BMO and uses technology from Toucan Giving, the Legion said. The launch also included a large remembrance mural inside Toronto’s Union Station. Measuring four by seven metres, it depicts First World War veteran Allan McLean “S...