EASTON, PA — March 18, 2026 — Bloom, an organization dedicated to providing sanctuary and a continuum of care to heal, empower and employ survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, has relocated its offices from Bethlehem to Easton, PA, where the former St. Francis retreat center — set to reopen in fall 2026 under new ownership — is located. The move marks an important step in Bloom’s continued growth and strengthens the organization’s ability to expand workforce development opportunities for the women it serves.
Located at 3918 Chipman Road, the former St. Francis Friary & Retreat House, situated on 22 acres in Easton, served the Diocese of Allentown as a beloved spiritual center for more than six decades under the stewardship of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe before closing in October 2024 after 65 years of operation. In an exciting development for the Easton community, the Monsignor Robert J. Coll Foundation, Inc. is preparing to reopen the facility in the fall of 2026 under a new name — the St. Francis Spirituality and Retreat Center of Easton — continuing its cherished tradition of offering a peaceful setting for reflection, gatherings, and spiritual growth. The imminent reopening of this landmark property under new ownership and a renewed mission creates a unique and timely opportunity for Bloom to be part of the site’s vibrant next chapter.
The reopening of the St. Francis Spirituality and Retreat Center of Easton provides Bloom with a centralized location where the majority of staff can work together, improving collaboration and coordination across the organization’s residential, outreach, and workforce development programs. The new space also offers additional room to support Bloom’s expanding programs to host additional community events, educational programs, and training sessions aimed at raising awareness of human trafficking and equipping the community to respond…