Ontario Supporting Royal Canadian Legions in York Region

New liquor licence fee rebates will help legions dedicate more resources to veterans, community programs and local charitable initiatives.

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AURORA-OAK RIDGES-RICHMOND HILL — The Ontario government is making it easier for Royal Canadian Legion branches in York Region to continue serving veterans and local communities by providing full liquor sales licence fee rebates to eligible branches applying for or renewing their liquor sales licences. The rebate program took effect on June 1, 2026, and applies retroactively to April 1, 2026.

“Ontario’s legions have long been at the heart of communities across our province, serving veterans, supporting local charities and bringing people together,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “That’s why our government is providing liquor sales licence fee rebates that will help legion branches dedicate more resources to the people and causes they serve across Ontario.”

Aurora Royal Canadian Legion Branch 385 plays a vital role in supporting veterans and their families in York Region, while also advancing the tradition of remembrance, leading fundraising efforts and hosting community events that bring people together.

“The Aurora Royal Canadian Legion Branch 385 has a long history of serving veterans and strengthening our community,” said Michael Parsa, MPP for Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill. “Our government is proud to support legions by reducing costs so they can continue investing in the people, programs and services that matter most to veterans and local families.”

Across Ontario, 391 Royal Canadian Legion branches currently hold liquor sales licences and are eligible for the rebate program.

Quick facts

• Ontario’s legion branches support veterans, Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP families, charitable activities, Remembrance Day ceremonies, seniors’ supports, youth education initiatives and community programs.
• Rebates will reduce costs for nearly 400 eligible legion branches by almost $250,000 over five years.
• The rebate for a two-year licence term is $1,055, while the rebate for a four-year term is $1,355.
• Ontario branches of the Royal Canadian Legion do not need to submit a rebate application to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Eligible fees will be returned automatically within two to four weeks after the licence or renewal is approved.

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