The First Vegan Food Bank in Los Angeles
The First Vegan Food Bank in Los Angeles unites volunteers and donors for a fantastic vegan project! We raise awareness through our blog, podcasts, news, and events.
About Us
Founded by Gwenna Hunter is 2015 Vegans of LA began as a group on Meetup.com/VegansofLA to explore community, friendships and frequent vegan restaurants together. Since then we have held local Los Angeles events and in May of 2022 The Vegans of LA Food Bank was launched! A chance meeting with Pastor Sunny Kang of Hope on Union created an historical launch making Vegans of LA the first plantbased/vegan food bank in Los Angeles. Gwenna is also the first woman of color to launch a vegan brick and mortar food bank in the United States.
At Vegans of LA, we believe that access to nourishing, sustainable food is a universal birthright that transcends borders, cultures, and circumstances. Our mission is to create a world where food security and compassion align, offering everyone the opportunity to thrive without exploitation of animals or the planet.
Guided by the principle of planetary oneness and unity, we understand that the choices we make today ripple across ecosystems, communities, and future generations. By promoting plant-based solutions, we honor the intrinsic connection between human health, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship.
We are more than a food bank—we are a movement. A movement committed to dismantling systems of inequity that perpetuate hunger, harm, and ecological destruction. Through community partnerships, education, and direct action, we aim to empower individuals to embrace a compassionate lifestyle that nurtures all living beings.
Join us in reimagining a world where food unites us, not divides us; where abundance is shared, not hoarded; and where animals are friends, not resources. Together, we can cultivate a future rooted in love, sustainability, and collective well-being.
Where to Find Us
Location
2208 S Union Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90007
At the corner of 23rd and Union Ave.
Operating Hours
every third Thursday of the month (Jan-Oct).
Nov-Dec TBD.
Additional Information
The lines are long so get there early as we cannot guarantee food availability for everyone in line.
Mission
Vision
Our vision is to create a world where nutritious, plant-based food is a right, and no one has to choose between health and finances. We believe a sustainable planet starts with healthy communities, and by providing access to nutritious food, we can build a better future for all.
Meet Our Awesome Team
Gwenna Hunter
Avaion Ruth
Avaion Ruth is a graduate student and research assistant at the University of Southern California passionate about the interdependence of food security, nutrition, and human development. He has experience working on various food justice projects across Los Angeles, including the Vegan Outreach COVID-19 Emergency Food Aid Program and the VegansofLA Food Bank. Avaion holds a B.S. in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention studies. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, hiking, and yoga.
Paige Parsons Roache
Ivonne Arroyave
Sherri Johnson
With over 15 years in the fitness industry, Sherri is passionate about promoting health and wellness. A certified plant-based nutritionist with a BS in Business Management, her journey into veganism began 10 years ago during a church fast—and she never looked back. Having experienced food insecurity growing up, she is committed to making healthy, sustainable choices and helping others lead healthier, more fulfilling lives through proper nutrition and fitness. She co-hosts Plant-Based in the Burbz, a cooking show on Unchained TV’s global streaming platform, where she showcases delicious plant-based recipes to inspire healthier eating habits.
