Bermudian Author Starts Non-Profit Charity
While many people know of Rodney A. Smith, Jr from his books Words from a Gentleman and Words of a Broken Heart, published in early 2013 and early 2014 respectively, the Bermudian author is also the founder of the Single-Parent Mothers Foundation [SPMF] of Alabama – a charitable effort that the author plans to bring to Bermuda.
A spokesperson said, “He started SPMF in 2013 because he saw there was a great need. His relationship books brought him into contact with many women, especially single-parent mothers who sought his advice. They often said how difficult it was to raise their kids on their own and how frequently they fell short of providing the basic needs for their kids.
“From those meetings, he came up with the idea to start a foundation to help single-parent mothers. The foundation provides mothers assistance with groceries, transportation, and bills. It also supplies personal hygiene items for the kids.
“When the foundation was first started, Rodney came out-of-pocket, using funds he made during the summer months while home from school. Later, he started a penny drive, asking people in the community to donate loose change so he could assist more mothers with bills and groceries.
“The response from the penny drive was great. It is now an ongoing part of the foundation. The foundation also designed t-shirts for sale; all profits go to assisting the mothers.”
“The foundation accepts donated clothes for redistribution. Volunteers wash and sort all the clothing, and Rodney, personally delivers the items to the moms who have requested clothing for their kids.”
“In April of 2014, the foundation had its official launch. There were face painting and games for the kids and free food for all. A local church choir sang. There were tables set up with clothes, and people could take whatever they needed. It was a successful event.
“The second annual SPMF event is planned for April of this year.
“When the foundation was launched, there were just a few bags of clothing. Presently, the donated items of clothes, toys, food, and household items fill an entire two-car garage. Rodney is grateful to all the people who have generously donated to the foundation.
“He has several long-term plans for the foundation, including starting a scholarship fund to help single-parent mothers complete a two or four-year degree, purchasing a van to provide mothers with transportation, and starting a daycare where mothers will pay according to their ability.
“With the success of the foundation in the United States, Rodney plans to start a division in Bermuda. This summer upon his return, he plans to form SPMF of Bermuda. He plans to get the ball rolling by holding meetings and soliciting volunteers.
“If you would like to be a part of SPMF of Bermuda, please visit Mr. Smith’s Facebook page. For more information about the SPMF in Huntsville, visit its Facebook page.”
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