The family behind a local holiday initiative is asking the community to pitch in early this summer to ensure an annual winter tradition can continue.
Twelve-year-old Layla Bowen, the organizer of "Layla’s Christmas Blessings," has spent the past four years baking cobblers, cheesecakes, cookies and pies — sometimes for nearly 24 hours straight — to fund holiday gifts for area children in need. Last year, every dime of her 2025 bake sale revenue went to purchase nearly $500 in toys, clothes and shoes for students in the Glenwood School District.
However, her mother, Teal Bowen, told the Quill that the 2025 holiday effort “did not even scratch the surface” of the fundraising achieved the year before. The downturn in sales has resulted in more money spent from the family’s own pockets to ensure local school districts receive clothing, footwear and toys come December.
“We of course give her extra, but she really needs all the help she can get if she’s going to make a difference for enough kids this year,” she added. “I’m so glad we start early!”
Teal Bowen has attempted to secure business sponsorships for the upcoming season with minimal success. While a few local businesses — including Virtual Greens, The Kid Community, S&S Skateland and The Pizza Shack — have pledged their support, most prospects showed little interest, leaving the family with fewer options to sustain the operation.
Chasing an early head start this July, the family has adjusted its strategy. A public fundraising drawing is scheduled for 5 p.m. July 20 at Iron Brand Realty, 804 Porter Wagoner Blvd. In West Plains. Layla also plans to expand her upcoming efforts beyond baked goods to include family activities like face painting, to make it feel more like a full community event.
“I feel blessed that she’s so giving,” Teal Bowen said, noting that her daughter's dedication to altruism began at a young age.
Layla's desire to give back stems from watching documentaries about impoverished communities around the world and personal experience: Helping a sibling battle through cancer inspired Layla Bowen to be a part of giving back with her own money.
What first began as a tradition of choosing presents to buy children off a Christmas tree at Gramma Nell’s restaurant in Birch Tree quickly evolved into an independent endeavor of Layla’s own.
“I really like doing it,” Layla added.
Those interested in sponsoring the initiative or contributing to the holiday drive can contact Teal Bowen at 417-247-2505 or via her Facebook page at @teal.reese, where updates for Layla’s Christmas Blessings are posted.
