Learn more about the Food Bank’s Nutrition Pantry Program and how it’s helping our neighbors thrive.

At the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, providing food is just the beginning. Through the Nutrition Pantry Program (NPP), the Food Bank goes a step further—helping local pantries enhance their services with a focus on dignity, respect, and nutrition security.

Established in partnership with Leah’s Pantry and supported by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the Program empowers pantry administrators and volunteers with the tools, training, and resources to better serve their communities.

What Is the Nutrition Pantry Program?

The Nutrition Pantry Program helps food pantries across the County transform their operations through a trauma-informed, culturally responsive framework. As Francis Villalpando, Nutrition Services Manager at the Food Bank, explains, “The Nutrition Pantry Program makes great pantries even greater.”

Each participating pantry is trained in six core areas:

• Nutrition Education
• Cultural and Dietary Accommodations
• Pantry Policies and Procedures
• Community Connections
• Inventory and Food Waste Reduction
• Environment Improvements

Pantry leaders can tailor the program to meet their specific needs—whether they require more volunteers, want to partner with grocery stores for fresh produce, or need help designing culturally relevant food distributions.

Culturally Tailored Support

A key component of the Nutrition Pantry Program is honoring the diverse cultures and dietary needs of our neighbors. Pantry teams are encouraged to ask their neighbors if they are satisfied with the kind of food available and what items they may need. The result is less food waste and more engaged, empowered neighbors who feel seen and respected.

Nutrition Education That Inspires Healthy Living

Nutrition education is a cornerstone of the program. Health educators and supervisors offer food demos, simple recipes, and wellness tips at pantry sites. These lessons are especially valuable for neighbors managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

“It’s a joy to see people come back and tell us how they tried something new,” Francis shares. “They’re not just feeding their families—they’re making healthier choices and passing those habits down.”

Free Training and Lasting Impact

Participation in the Nutrition Pantry Program comes at no cost for partner agencies. In fact, the Food Bank provides additional resources and connects pantries with external training and support opportunities. To date, over a dozen pantries have graduated from the program, most achieving Gold-level recognition for their commitment to excellence.

“The real beneficiaries,” Francis emphasizes, “are the neighbors. If this program didn’t exist, they wouldn’t have access to the level of care and service that NPP helps make possible.”

Interested in supporting programs like the Nutrition Pantry Program? Consider making a donation today.