We have a new CEO! Stacia Levenfeld

The California Association of Food Banks is excited to announce the appointment of our new CEO, Stacia Levenfeld. Most recently Executive Director of Public Affairs for The Save Mart Companies, her extensive career in the grocery industry makes her aptly prepared to elevate the voice of California’s food banks and of our food insecure community-members that rely on them.

“We are so very excited to have Stacia Levenfeld joining our cause to lead the California Association of Food Banks” said Willy Elliot-McCrea, Chair of CA Food Banks’ Board of Directors. “Stacia’s work leading the Save Mart CARES Foundation’s close partnership with food banks throughout California as well as her decades of experience in public affairs and communications makes her uniquely suited to lead the organization during this year when the food banks will need the food and resources now more than ever to help our communities stay fed and healthy throughout the challenging months ahead.”

Previously, Levenfeld was with Albertsons, Kaiser Permanente, and the UN World Food Programme. She sits on the Board of The Save Mart Companies C.A.R.E.S. Foundation, making grants to community-based, non-profits.

“Now more than ever, it is evident what a crucial resource California’s food banks are for our communities,” said Levenfeld. “The California Association of Food Banks has an excellent team in place, who quickly partnered with the California Department of Social Services to support food banks with additional food and resources needed to meet the challenges posed by COVID-19, as well as the increasing demand for free groceries throughout the state. There is a great need right now, but I am confident that together we can and will nourish all Californians.”

Levenfeld will take the helm on April 13. Kathleen Odne, interim executive director, will remain with CA Food Banks until the end of April to ensure a smooth transition in such an unprecedented time.

Welcome Stacia!