Bloom Healthy has a mission beyond simply selling produce — a mission that has drawn the attention of LoHud, ABC News, and the Westchester County Launch 1000 Program. While you can customize your box of Marion Henson’s fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, you are also encouraged to “pay it forward with kindness,” gifting healthy food to a family in need.
The gifting element of her business was inspired by Marion’s own experiences with food insecurity, when her husband lost his long-time job, and she had just given birth to their third child. Combining Marion’s background as a storyteller and communications strategist with her newly discovered purpose of sustaining her community of families with healthy food yielded the innovative business of Bloom Healthy.
When you shop with Marion online or at HudCo Provisions, you can get a box for yourself and pay it forward as well — The Little Bloom box, $45, serves four to five and includes 12 items, and the Little Bloom Mini, $25, feeds one to three and includes 6 items. Marion connects with local churches and schools to identify families in need, and she encourages any families in need of some kindness to apply on her website.
What was the most rewarding part of participating in Westchester County’s Launch 1000 Program? How did you find out about this opportunity?
My sister sent me the link to the program and encouraged me to trust in a process that would help create an impact. The most rewarding part was the growth I saw in myself and my peers as we learned to derisk our businesses.
How do you set yourself up for a successful market day? How much time do you designate for prep work?
I wake up earlier so that I can set the tone for the day. I meditate with my youngest, have breakfast and a cup of tea with my family, and then go over any last minute details before heading out to set up. Prep work usually takes two to three hours, but when I first started it was much longer because I was trying to understand the best way to organize, set up, and source.
What’s your favorite healthy family meal when you’re in a time crunch?
One of our household favorites healthy meals is pan-grilled chicken breast with sautéed garlic broccoli and turmeric jasmine rice, which takes about 25-30 minutes.
What do you hope to accomplish this year with Bloom Healthy this year?
I want to continue strengthening Bloom Healthy’s pop ups, relationship with farmers, sponsorships, and team. This year’s hope is really about growth and connection. I want to grow Bloom Healthy to a profitable company that creates a positive impact in communities.
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Come see Marion IRL at HudCo Provisions on February 16, and follow her on Instagram and Facebook.