Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the fact that most of their volunteers fall into the “vulnerable to virus” category, the organization of The Bloom Project has not been operational since mid-March.
Given the conditions of the patients TBP supplies flowers to, many of whom also fall into the category of most vulnerable to the virus, efforts to keep everyone safe would push any opportunity for restarting operations for an indefinite period of time.
Additionally, the floral industry has been directly impacted by the pandemic, experiencing a significant loss of revenue due to the absence of large-scale events such as weddings, funerals, graduations and other celebrations, worldwide. These partners, who have been so generous over the years, need The Bloom Project's support now more than ever in the form of purchasing and sharing flowers. The organization feels that it is not appropriate to request donated product while the industry is trying to recover.
The Bloom Projects assets and funds will be distributed hospice and palliative care 501(c)(3) organizations over the next three to six months as required by Oregon law.
The Bloom Project has partnered with local and regional hospice and palliative care organizations as well as floral wholesalers, grocers and florists to create fresh floral bouquets to delivered to patients’ homes or care facilities. This has been made possible through strategic partnerships as well as the generosity of volunteers and community members, donating time, monies and other resources. The Bloom Project has delivered approximately 282,000 bouquets with over 137,000 volunteer hours donated during the last thirteen years.
"We are forever grateful for our dedicated board members, employees, volunteers, donors and partners who came together to make an impact in the lives of hospice patients and caregivers. We know what the power of flowers can do for others! Let’s continue to find ways to not only encourage and support the patients and caregivers who have been recipients of our bouquets. But also, to look for opportunities where we can focus our time, energy and resources on the critical needs in our communities," the organization shares.
For more information:
The Bloom Project
thebloomproject.org