This Hispanic Heritage Month, we are celebrating the stories of Latinos whose journeys, values and voices are essential for our goal of ending childhood hunger and strengthening the fabric of our country.
One of those voices is Chef Lorena Garcia. An entrepreneur, restaurateur, author and TV personality, Chef Lorena has built a career that celebrates the food that she grew up with in her native Caracas, Venezuela. But beyond the recipes and restaurants, her path has been shaped by her mother, a social worker who taught her early on: “You better give back if you want to be successful in this world.”
Those words stayed with Chef Lorena from the day she graduated culinary school. For her, success is measured not just by personal achievement, but by what we do for others. She carries that lesson in everything she does, in the kitchen, on television or in her advocacy as a voice for No Kid Hungry.
“As a Latina and as a chef, I know the power food has to bring joy, connection, and community,” she shared. “That’s why I’ve committed myself to making sure no child has to go hungry, especially in a country as prosperous as ours.”
Through her nonprofit program Big Chef, Little Chef, Chef Lorena mentors children, teaching them to cook while inspiring them to dream big. And for more than four years, she has been a partner with No Kid Hungry, serving as a summer ambassador to ensure Latino families, especially Spanish-speaking families, know about the free summer meals available to their children. She has also used her platform to raise her voice against cuts to programs like SNAP, which provide a lifeline to families during difficult times.
She understands lack of information or stigma often keep families from accessing programs that are there to support them so their kids thrive. By speaking up, she hopes to break down those barriers and ensure every parent feels empowered to access the resources available for their children.
“Food is not just nourishment—it is joy, it is connection, it is community,” Chef Lorena said. “Every child deserves the chance to experience that joy. That’s why I’m proud to stand with No Kid Hungry and to use my voice so that all children can thrive.”
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor Chef Lorena Garcia not only for her culinary talent, but for her heart, her advocacy and her belief that giving back is at the center of true success. She reminds us all that when we share our voices and work together, we can build a future where every child has the healthy food they deserve.
