The Bloom Closet in Rome has experienced an outpouring of support from local organizations, strengthening its ability to serve foster children in Northwest Georgia. Among its most dedicated partners are the Bonner Scholars from Berry College and members of the Northwest Georgia Convocation of Episcopal Churches, both of whom have played a vital role in keeping the Bloom Closet running smoothly and efficiently.
The Bonner Scholars Program, one of the largest privately funded service scholarship programs in the nation, provides college students with opportunities to serve their communities while receiving financial support for their education. Berry College was among the first institutions to participate in the program in 1991, and today, each Bonner Scholar commits to 140 hours of service per semester at a local nonprofit, along with additional summer service requirements.
When the Bloom Closet in Rome first opened in 2024, it was assigned one Bonner Scholar to assist with operations. However, as the 2024-25 academic year has progressed, that number has grown to 12 Bonner Scholars who now dedicate their time and talents to Bloom. These hardworking students have learned how to sort, store, and stage clothing, ensuring that the closet remains well-stocked and organized. They assist with appointments, helping foster children choose outfits that make them feel comfortable and confident.
“The student volunteers at Berry College have been a tremendous asset to the Bloom Closet in Rome,” said Program Coordinator Devon Smyth. “It’s inspiring to see their passion for service and commitment to making a real difference in the lives of the children we serve.”
In addition to the Bonner Scholars, the Northwest Georgia Convocation of Episcopal Churches has stepped forward to support the Bloom Closet’s mission. The participating parishes—St. Peter’s in Rome, St. Mark’s in Dalton, St. Timothy’s in Calhoun, St. James’ in Cedartown, and Church of the Ascension in Cartersville—have joined forces to collect essential items for foster children. As part of April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month and May’s Foster Care Awareness Month, these churches will be gathering toiletries, pajamas, underwear, school supplies, diapers, and wipes to donate to the Bloom Closet in Rome.
This initiative was spearheaded by Devon Smyth, Bloom’s Rome Program Coordinator, who also serves as the convocational deacon to these parishes. Through her leadership, the needs of the foster care community have been brought to the attention of these congregations, fostering a deeper connection between faith communities and the mission of Bloom. The goal is for this model of support to expand throughout the Diocese of Atlanta, engaging all 117 worshipping communities in efforts to assist foster children across the region. Thanks to the commitment of the Bonner Scholars and Episcopal Church congregations, the Bloom Closet in Rome continues to grow, ensuring that foster children in Northwest Georgia have access to the essentials they need. These partnerships are great examples of how service-minded students and faith-based communities can come together to make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children.
