The Buddy Poppy Program was established by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in 1922, making it the first veterans' organization to conduct a nationwide distribution of poppies. The program was inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields" by Colonel John McCrae, which highlighted the significance of poppies as a symbol of remembrance for soldiers who lost their lives in battle.

 

The primary purpose of the Buddy Poppy Program is to provide financial assistance to disabled and needy veterans. The poppies are assembled by these veterans, who are compensated for their work, thus offering them a source of income and a sense of purpose. The program not only helps veterans financially but also serves as a therapeutic activity, aiding in their rehabilitation.

 

• For the aid, assistance, relief, and comfort of needy or disabled veterans or members of the Armed Forces and their dependents, and the widows and orphans of deceased veterans.

• For the maintenance and expansion of the VFW National Home and other facilities devoted exclusively to the benefit and welfare of the dependents, widows, and orphans of disabled, needy, or deceased veterans or members of the Armed Forces. 

• For necessary expenses in providing entertainment, care, and assistance to hospitalized veterans or members of the Armed Forces.

• For veterans’ rehabilitation, welfare, and service work. 

• To perpetuate the memory of deceased veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and to comfort survivors.