Empowering Communities Through Veganism : The Vegan Food Bank of LA

In this episode of The Wild Party Podcast, host Stefanie LaHart sits down with the inspiring Gwenna Hunter, founder of Vegans of LA Food Bank. Gwenna’s journey from personal struggles to becoming the first woman in Los Angeles to establish a vegan food bank is both moving and transformative. Her passion for providing plant-based food to communities in need is rooted in her deep emotional connection with animals, a commitment that was solidified after a profound, life-changing dream.

A Journey of Transformation

Gwenna’s journey toward veganism began in 2008 when she decided to become a vegetarian. Her first major step came from a 28-day Biblical fast that revealed how dramatically her health could improve by abstaining from animal products. However, it wasn’t until 2016, after an emotionally charged dream in which she felt a deep, spiritual connection to a cow, that she fully embraced a vegan lifestyle. This awakening led her to realize the emotional capacity of animals, particularly their ability to love and care for their offspring just as humans do. She vowed to use this understanding to advocate for a vegan lifestyle, not only to protect animals but also to improve human well-being.

Establishing the Vegans of LA Food Bank

Gwenna's experiences with poverty and food insecurity in Los Angeles made her realize how critical food is to survival, but also how it can be a tool for kindness and compassion. These experiences inspired her to establish the Vegans of LA Food Bank, where people in need can access fresh, nutritious plant-based food without judgment or stigma. With a heart full of compassion and determination, Gwenna didn’t have a clear path to start the food bank but believed in letting the universe guide her. Through a serendipitous partnership with Pastor Sonny, who was running a food distribution program at USC, she found the resources to launch her initiative, including access to freezers, refrigerators, and a truck.

Community Impact and Empowerment

The food bank now serves around 400 people every third Thursday of the month, offering produce-heavy, nutritious staples like kale, cabbage, potatoes, and rice to a diverse community. What sets Vegans of LA Food Bank apart is not only the plant-based offerings but the fact that visitors can choose their own food, creating a sense of dignity and empowerment. Gwenna emphasizes the importance of addressing food insecurity with fresh produce, believing that healthy, plant-based food can help alleviate the physical and emotional struggles faced by people in need.

Challenges and Partnerships

Running a food bank comes with its challenges, especially sourcing fresh produce and quality food. Gwenna partners with local suppliers like What's Good Produce, and food rescue organizations such as Food Finders and Food Forward, to supply the food bank. However, the unpredictability of rescued food means she relies heavily on fundraising to purchase fresh produce.

Partnerships and outreach have played a critical role in Gwenna’s journey. From cold emailing potential sponsors to securing funding from high-level donors, she highlights the importance of asking for help and finding support in unexpected places.

Defining Success and Moving Forward

For Gwenna, success is no longer defined by financial achievements or recognition but by her quality of life. Her new definition of success is rooted in rest, happiness, and the ability to delegate tasks, allowing her to focus on scaling the food bank and continuing to make a positive impact in her community. Her plans for the future include expanding her team and reaching more people with nutritious, plant-based food.

Listen to the Full Interview

Gwenna Hunter's story is one of resilience, compassion, and community-building. Her work at Vegans of LA Food Bank demonstrates the power of plant-based food to nourish not just the body, but the soul. To hear more about Gwenna’s inspiring journey and insights on starting a mission-driven nonprofit, listen to the full interview on The Wild Party Podcast, streaming now on your favorite podcast platform.

Ready to support a cause that aligns with your values? Learn more about Vegans of LA and how you can contribute to providing plant-based food to communities in need.