Staff Spotlight: Maritza Hernandez, Programs Director

For more than a decade, Maritza Hernandez has dedicated herself to the mission of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. As a Programs Director, she plays a vital role in connecting our community to food and nutrition resources, particularly for older adults who are especially at risk of food and nutrition insecurity.

“Being part of the Food Bank team for the past 12 years has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” says Maritza. “What motivates me every day is knowing that the work we do directly helps our neighbors—especially seniors—providing them with essential food resources.”

One of the core programs Maritza oversees is the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), a federally funded initiative that provides monthly food kits to income-eligible older adults across Los Angeles County. Seniors are uniquely vulnerable to food and nutrition insecurity due to fixed incomes, transportation challenges, health issues and limited access to nutritious food. CSFP bridges this gap by providing essential items that help stretch tight budgets.

Each food kit distributed through CSFP contains approximately 30 pounds of shelf-stable groceries, including canned fruits and vegetables, rice, beans, pasta, milk, canned meats, cheese, and, when possible, fresh produce or yogurt. The retail value of each box is estimated at over $50, offering critical relief to individuals who might otherwise go without.

This widespread effort would not be possible without the support of volunteers, host sites, and advocates who ensure these boxes make it into the hands of those who need them most. From church parking lots to senior housing centers, CSFP distributions bring nutrition, stability and hope to communities throughout the region.

For Maritza, the impact is deeply personal. “Knowing that my work directly helps those who need it most is incredibly meaningful to me.'”

As the cost of living continues to rise, programs like CSFP remain a vital lifeline. With leaders like Maritza at the helm and a strong network of support, the Food Bank is committed to making sure no senior in Los Angeles County goes hungry.

By giving today, you’re making a direct impact on hunger relief efforts and helping ensure no one in our community goes without food.