A Crown with a Purpose: Carmen Bloom-Harvey’s Mission to Make Every Family Feel Seen
For Carmen Bloom-Harvey, Mrs. East Coast International, her crown represents an opportunity to turn one of her family’s hardest experiences into hope for others.
Her platform on food allergy awareness began when her son experienced anaphylaxis after taking just one bite of vegan macaroni at only one year old.
“I was terrified, unprepared, and unaware of how to protect my baby.”
After a second anaphylactic reaction at daycare a year later, Carmen knew she wanted to make a difference.
“After reflection, I determined it would be in my hands to be a changemaker and create a safer, more inclusive world for families like mine, educating as many people as I can.”
That passion recently led her to Community Hive, where she donated allergy-friendly foods to our pantry and books about food allergies to Oliver’s Book Nook.
“Through reading, children are exposed to the world. Safe practices and empathy are lessons we can teach children as soon as they are able to understand words.”
During her visit, Carmen immediately connected with Community Hive’s mission.
“Community Hive is a center of light! From the beautiful garden outside to the bright colors, open layout, and clean space inside, it is a place that feels like an elite, boutique grocery store!”
Her reaction was deeply personal. Growing up, Carmen experienced food insecurity and occasionally relied on a church food pantry.
“I already felt ‘less than’ due to financial circumstances beyond my control as a child, and the physical conditions of the pantry did not help. Community Hive presents a stark contrast to that environment. It moved me emotionally to see how much love has been infused into a physical space where people really, really need it.”
When asked what message she hopes to leave with the community, her answer centered on empathy.
“Empathy and inclusion are crucial for both food allergy families and for neighbors in need.”
She encourages all of us to look for simple ways to make a difference, whether it’s adding an extra can or two to your grocery cart, checking out Community Hive’s Amazon Wish List, or making a financial gift to support neighbors in need.
“A little bit goes a long way and you never know who you are helping, or who they will grow up to be someday.”
As Mrs. East Coast International, Carmen hopes sharing her family’s story will help save lives and inspire compassion.
“I think we all have stories to share.”
“By talking about my family’s experiences, I hope to save a life.”
We are grateful for Carmen’s generosity, her advocacy, and her willingness to share such a personal journey. Through her story, she reminds us that every act of kindness, no matter how small, helps create a stronger, more inclusive community.
As Carmen prepares to represent the East Coast at the Mrs. International® Competition in Chicago the week of July 21, we wish her the very best. Thank you for using your platform to make a difference. Your Community Hive family will be cheering you on!