When Laila Collins was almost two years old, her family's home was destroyed in the devastating Camp Fire in Paradise, California. During one of the most difficult chapters of their lives, Chive Charities stepped in to help provide stability and support. The family was invited to Texas for the Chive Charities Gala, where Laila's father, David, was recognized for his service as a firefighter during the Camp Fire. Chive Charities also provided a year of rent assistance, helping the family begin rebuilding.

But one little gift became especially meaningful to Laila: a stuffed bear she named BleeBlee Bear. BleeBlee Bear was a gift from one of our beloved supporters, Brad (a.k.a. Big Poppa Chive.)

Today, years later, BleeBlee Bear is still by her side every night.

As her mother, Kristen, shared, "To most people, it might seem like a simple stuffed animal. To us, it represents something much bigger. It is a reminder of a time when our family was hurting and strangers chose to show up for us."

That spirit of kindness has stayed with Laila, and she's found a beautiful way to pass it along.

At just eight years old, Laila founded The Elephant Farm Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children with food allergies, intolerances, and dietary restrictions. Having been diagnosed with Celiac Disease herself at just three years old, Laila understands some of the challenges that can come with navigating childhood when food isn't always simple.

Through community meetups, playgroups, and hands-on educational activities, The Elephant Farm creates safe, inclusive spaces where children can play, learn, build friendships, and feel understood.

Kristen shared, "She had seen firsthand what it meant for someone to care enough to help another family through a difficult time. She knew what it felt like to receive kindness when it was needed the most, and she wanted other children to experience that same feeling of being included, supported, and cared for."

The organization's name even has a special story. When Laila was younger and wasn't quite ready to participate in a conversation or activity, she would tell people, "Tell them I'm at the elephant farm." Her family loved the idea of creating a place where children could feel safe, take their time, and join in when they were ready.

As Kristen put it, "The Elephant Farm Inc is meant to be that kind of place—a little sanctuary where children are welcomed exactly as they are."

While her parents help bring her ideas to life, the heart of the organization belongs to Laila. And what an incredible thing to accomplish at such a young age!

Kristen reflected on the lasting impact of Chive Charities' support, sharing, "We cannot know exactly how much those experiences shaped her decision to start this nonprofit, but we know they are part of her story."

She continued, "In so many ways, The Elephant Farm Inc is our family's way of passing along the kindness you once gave to us."

Laila's story is a beautiful reminder that kindness can reach much further than we ever realize. What began as support for a family rebuilding after unimaginable loss has become part of a little girl's inspiration to help others feel safe, supported, and included.

We are so proud of Laila and cannot wait to see all the good she continues to put into the world.