MISSION AND OUTREACH
Jesse Ramirez is the Founder and President of the Valley View Food Bank (VVFB). He began his career with the food banks in 1984. It became his life time goal to help feed the hungry. He said he knew it was God’s plan for him. He attended Colorado University and studied non-profit management and volunteer management.
Jesse worked for West Side Food Bank from 2007 until they merged with St. Mary’s Food Bank. St. Mary’s reorganized and laid off a number of people including Jesse.
Because of his commitment, he founded VVFB to fill the gaps he saw in the food distribution to the needy in the west valley. Since that time VVFB has had tremendous growth. They now have distribution centers in Sun City, Sun City West, El Mirage and Surprise. They also have 4 thrift stores in the west valley. Jesse gives all the credit to God. He says without the hand of God this never could have happened.
At the present time, VVFB serves approximately 3,500 people a month. Jesse does not draw a salary, he says it is not a job, it’s his way of giving back.
They do not accept any government or state funds, they rely solely on donations from churches and civic organizations in the west valley.
Jesse says Lakeview is one of the most generous. Our Easter buckets, school supplies, turkeys, Christmas bags and cash donations are a major contribution that keeps VVFB operating. He is very grateful.
No child in this country should ever go to bed hungry and it is men and women like Jesse Ramirez who will continue to see that does not happen.