What the poppy is
The poppy has been the memorial flower for the war dead since the First World War. The VFW's Buddy Poppies are assembled by veterans, and distributing them is one of the oldest things the organization does.
The poppies are never sold. They are offered in exchange for a donation, and you are welcome to take one whether or not you give anything.
Where the money goes
Proceeds go to veterans relief — helping veterans and their families who are in a hard spot, and supporting the veterans who assemble the poppies. It does not go to overhead here.
If you or a veteran you know needs help, that is what this fund is for. Call the post and ask; the conversation stays between you and the post.
Volunteering for the drive
The drive runs on members standing out in the community for a couple of hours at a time. It is the single easiest way to help this post, and it does not require any particular skill.
If standing for two hours is not workable, say so when you sign up — there is seated work, and there is work back at the post.