Written by Mattison McDaniel, Bloom Closet Express Coordinator
As the Bloom Closet Express Coordinator, I have found immense joy and fulfillment in the work that I do. Connecting with children in foster care and providing them with items that bring them comfort and dignity is truly rewarding. Through Express trips, I have the opportunity to meet children from across the state and help them feel special, which is a priceless experience.
It’s not just these visits that make this role worthwhile; it’s the intentional preparation that makes each Express trip unique. Before each trip, I receive a list of names, clothing sizes, and special requests or preferences for each child we serve. Although hand-picking items for each child can sometimes seem tedious, it is one of my favorite parts of the job.
My personal goal is for each child to leave the Express feeling that they were carefully considered and thought of during the trip’s preparation. When children walk away from the Express with items they specifically requested—like a new pair of shoes they have wanted, a shirt in their favorite color, or a book by their favorite author—the satisfaction I feel is unparalleled.
Making an effort to know each child by name and ensuring they feel seen and valued is what matters most to me. The role of a Bloom Closet Express Coordinator goes far beyond distributing clothing and essentials to children in need. It’s about instilling a sense of worth and compassion in every child we serve, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on their lives.
