The Heritage Community Foundation presented a grant Aug. 9 to Becky Davenport, Executive Director of Bloom Our Youth, Inc. (Bloom). The grant will be used to purchase two much-needed computers that are compatible with Bloom’s current system.
Specifically, Bloom is in immediate need of a business-ready desktop computer system and a laptop that is up-to-date and compatible with its customized and secured network. These computers will be used now by the summer intern and later by a social worker who will be hired very soon.
Each month, Bloom receives an average of 150 referrals that cannot be placed because there are not enough foster homes available. To sustain and fuel the growth of its programs to reach Georgia’s at-risk children, having basic office needs such as computers for interns and additional staff is necessary.
Bloom provides physical, educational and emotional support to children who have been the victims of abuse or neglect in order to strengthen them for the next phase of life. The organization was founded in 1989 when a group of Fayette County citizens started a grassroots effort to shelter children in need of a safe place to live. Currently, Bloom provides services for children categorized as basic care foster children as well as therapeutic, medically fragile, or pregnant/parenting teenagers in foster care. Bloom’s foster families are located within 50 miles of its office location in Fayetteville.
In addition to its foster care program, Bloom also operates a resource center known as The Bloom Closet which provides free clothing and other supplies to children placed in out-of-home care on the south side of metro Atlanta. Bloom also operates a third program, a residential group home known as the Friday-Johnson Home, located in Brooks. At the Friday-Johnson Home, up to ten school-age children receive comprehensive services such as medical care, dental care, psychiatric services, and recreational activities in a loving, homelike environment.
For more information on how to apply for a grant with Heritage Community Foundation, make a donation or volunteer, visit www.heritagecommunityfoundation.org or contact executive director Rocky Davis at 770-478-8881.
