The VFW National Home is happy to announce our 2023-2024 Buddy Poppy Child, Layla!

Layla is 12 years old and lives in the Illinois 2 House with her mother and four brothers. Izaiah who is 16, Noah who is 9, Jaxon who is 6 and Potato her German Shepherd, who is 9 months old.

Layla just completed 6^th grade and is looking forward to starting 7^th grade in the Fall. Her favorite subject is Math.

“When I grow up, I want to be an entrepreneur, so I can be my own boss.” says Layla.

Her hobbies are playing video games, building things from cardboard, playing on the keyboard, and taking Potato out for walks. However, the hobby that she says she loves the most is playing the keyboard and learning new things with Ms. Rhonda, her piano instructor.

“I love living at the National Home because we have a home that is safe and beautiful.”

Layla and her bothers have enjoyed playing basketball in the Community Center Gymnasium and going on community trips to places like Cedar Point. She also enjoys the summertime events, seeing Santa on a firetruck at Christmas, and raising pigs for the National Home’s 4H program.

“We wouldn’t have had this opportunity if it wasn’t for my mom and her military service. She served 9 years in the World’s Finest Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman. She deployed 4 times and loved serving her country. I am proud of my mom, and of all the men and women who had given their lives, who have served, and who continue to fight, to keep America safe. Thank you.”