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About Us

Mendo Food Network

Where compassion meets action

At Mendo Food Network, we are passionate about improving the lives of individuals and families through access to healthy and nourishing meals. We firmly believe that no one should have to go to bed hungry, and we work tirelessly towards that goal. Thanks to our dedicated partners, volunteers, and donors, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing food insecurity. Together, we have been ending hunger and nourishing communities since 1979. We are committed to providing essential food assistance and support to those in need throughout Mendocino County.
We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our wonderful network of hunger advocates. Their generosity and kindness are the backbone of our organization. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations who provide the essential financial support that keeps us going. We truly appreciate the tireless efforts of our dedicated volunteers, who contribute over 12,000 hours each year at our distribution sites across Mendocino County. And, of course, we must also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our employees, who are our organization's beating heart and soul. Their unwavering dedication and hard work are the key to the success of the Mendo Food Network.


At Mendo Food Network, we go above and beyond to create welcoming and inclusive spaces for everyone who walks through our doors. Whether you need assistance or want to offer support, we are always happy to welcome you with open arms! Our mission to make a difference and ensure that no one faces hunger alone is only possible because of the support we receive from our community. Together, we can make a significant impact and build a stronger, healthier, and more compassionate community for all. Thank you for being a part of our journey!

Join our Team!

Thank you for your interest in the Mendo Food Network! If you see a job below that you’d like to apply for, please send your resume to the corresponding hiring manager along with the materials requested in your desired job description. If your application meets the requirements, the hiring manager will reach out to you to set up an interview and may request additional information.

  • MFN Employment Application

    The Mendo Food Network is an equal opportunity employer.

    We do not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status, or unfavorable discharge from military service.


Current Open Positions

    Meet Our Team

    We’re a dynamic group of individuals who are passionate about what we do.

    • Amanda Friscia

      Executive Director

      Amanda started at the Fort Bragg Food Bank in 2009 as Client/Volunteer Coordinator. After working closely as the Director’s Assistant she became Executive Director in February 2019. Growing up locally in Fort Bragg gives her a great understanding of the community and the need. With several years of customer service and a passion for helping people she is right at home in her position.

      Amanda's greatest contribution as Executive Director has been our massive expansion and rebranding effort, in which we grew from the Fort Bragg Food Bank to the Mendo Food Network with our Willits warehouse, and began serving Mendocino County at large. Her work has vastly increased our capacity to serve emergency and supplemental food to any Mendocino County neighbor in need.

    • Rachelle Sutherland

      Deputy Director

      Rachelle has been with Mendo Food Network since 2019 and has grown with the organization. Her journey began as a Fort Bragg Food Bank driver and has progressed in strides. As the Deputy Director, Rachelle has an in-depth understanding of the organization and continues to strive for improvement.

      One of her most notable achievements has been implementing pop-up Distributions in the most underserved areas of Mendocino County. She actively works to raise community awareness about food insecurity and ensures that food is provided to those who need it most.

      Rachelle’s greatest attributes are her wonderful sense of humor and her warm, approachable demeanor.

    • Jim DiMauro

      Head of Fort Bragg Warehouse

      Jim joined the Fort Bragg Food Bank in 2010 after retiring as the Store Manager from Safeway. His transition to the Mendo Food Network and Fort Bragg Food Bank was seamless, and he has brought immense warmth to the organization. It is evident that Jim is passionate about his work, ensuring that every person who visits us feels genuinely appreciated.

    • Robert Barnett

      Head of Willits Warehouse

      Robert came to us in 2024 from the Redwood Empire Food Bank with 4 years of experience working with food banks. His extensive experience has taken him from Loader, Commercial Truck Driver, and Logistics Coordinator to Head of the Willits Warehouse for the MFN! He's thrilled to be working here in Mendocino County with the MFN team, and is looking forward to growing and connecting to our community.

    • Mary Tinder

      Head of Development & Fundraising

      As our Head of Development & Fundraising, Mary oversees our donor engagement, fundraising and campaigns, and marketing. Mary's goal is to help the Mendo Food Network in our mission to provide healthy, fresh food to anyone in need in Mendocino County. Mary is passionate about helping others, and is committed to encouraging community, empathy, and equity in every aspect of her work.

    • Tricia Fernandez

      Head of Programs

      Tricia Fernandez came to the Food Bank seeking an internship to complement her Human Services degree at Mendocino College, where she graduated in 2025. She quickly established an instant connection with our team and transitioned into a role within our food distribution department. As our Head of Programs, Tricia serves as the face of our CalFresh Outreach program and oversees our Pop-Up distributions. Her warm and friendly presence and dedication to her work make her an invaluable member of our team. Thank you, Tricia!

    • Ronda Wasco

      Volunteer Coordinator

      Joining the team in 2026, Ronda supports our volunteers with clear communication and scheduling, making sure we have all the generous volunteers we need to keep our programs going! Ronda is very engaged in the Fort Bragg community and has extensive experience in volunteer coordination, coaching, and, not to mention, her service as a Fire Captain.

    • Renee Viale

      Administrative Coordinator

      Since she started with the MFN team in 2025, Renee is our backbone, ensuring our supply chains flow and our Willits team is happy! Always ready to help with a smile, Renee has quickly progressed to being an incredibly value asset to our day-to-day operations.

    • Kristin Hock

      Partner Services Coordinator

      Beginning with us in 2020, Kristin is our Partner Services Coordinator. She meets partner agencies onsite to assist with distributing food to food banks, pantries, senior centers, and more all over the county. Her smiling face and kind heart are a great addition to the MFN.

    • Mario Seibel

      Warehouse Assistant/Driver

      Starting in 2025, Mario provides much needed support in our Willits warehouse, stocking our racks with delivered food one minute, and pulling it back down for distribution around the county the next! Keep an eye out on the roads for the MFN truck and give him a wave!

    • Josh Admire

      Driver/ Warehouse Associate

      Josh is a welcoming face at the Fort Bragg Food Bank and is responsible for collecting food donations, grocery recovery, and local deliveries daily. He ensures timely deliveries and maintains the safety and cleanliness of the delivery vehicle. Having grown up on the coast, he is a great addition to the team.

    • Kris Russell

      Program Coordinator

      Kris transitioned to employment after being a valued volunteer. She takes pride in her work and knows so many of our clients by name . She is an important part of our distribution and is especially helpful with our senior clients. A dog lover at heart, she always has a dog treat ready for our furry friends!

    • Angela Dominguez

      Grants Coordinator

      Angela started at the food bank in 2020 and has been helpful in everything she is able to do. Starting as a volunteer, she quickly learned how the food bank operated and has much to offer. Always lending a hand she is great to have around. Originally from San Jose, Angela and her 4 children love life in this small coastal town.

    Board of Directors

    We're recruiting! Please contact us at info@mendofood.org to get involved.

    • Desiree Ramos, President

      Events Manager

    • Juliana Sanchez, Vice President

      Mendocino Coast Children's Fund

    • Matthew Evans, Treasurer

    • Jo Schiro, Secretary

      Engel & Volkers

    • Thom Adams

      Retired Businessman

    • Jaime Ries

      Legal, Governance

    Transparency

    Fostering trust and accountability and ensuring that donors, volunteers, and clients understand and have confidence in our commitment to fighting hunger and supporting those in need.

    We ensure that fresh, nutritious food reaches individuals and families in need through our comprehensive weekly food distribution programs across Mendocino County.

    We are committed to financial transparency, providing clear and detailed reports on how donations are used to support our programs and initiatives, ensuring accountability to our donors and stakeholders.

    We partner with local farmers, grocers, and businesses to source high-quality produce, dairy, and pantry staples, ensuring that the food we distribute is fresh and supports local agriculture.

    Our initiatives have significantly reduced hunger in our community, providing essential nourishment to hundreds of households and fostering a stronger, healthier community.

    Nonprofit Documents

    These documents ensure transparency and accountability, offering a comprehensive overview of our activities and financial health.

    • 2024 Annual Report

      Our Annual Report showcases our impact and achievements over the past year. It offers:

      -Highlights of our key programs and initiatives

      -Stories of lives changed by our work

      -Financial overview and use of funds

      -Messages from our leadership

      -Future goals and plans

      This report is a great way to see the real-world difference your support makes. We're excited to share our progress and vision with you.

    • 2023 Annual Report

      Our Annual Report showcases our impact and achievements over the past year. It offers:

      -Highlights of our key programs and initiatives

      -Stories of lives changed by our work

      -Financial overview and use of funds

      -Messages from our leadership

      -Future goals and plans

      This report is a great way to see the real-world difference your support makes. We're excited to share our progress and vision with you.

    • 2022 Annual Report

      Our Annual Report showcases our impact and achievements over the past year. It offers:

      -Highlights of our key programs and initiatives

      -Stories of lives changed by our work

      -Financial overview and use of funds

      -Messages from our leadership

      -Future goals and plans

      This report is a great way to see the real-world difference your support makes. We're excited to share our progress and vision with you.

    • 2021 Annual Report

      Our Annual Report showcases our impact and achievements over the past year. It offers:

      -Highlights of our key programs and initiatives

      -Stories of lives changed by our work

      -Financial overview and use of funds

      -Messages from our leadership

      -Future goals and plans

      This report is a great way to see the real-world difference your support makes. We're excited to share our progress and vision with you.

    • 2020 Annual Report

      Our Annual Report showcases our impact and achievements over the past year. It offers:

      -Highlights of our key programs and initiatives

      -Stories of lives changed by our work

      -Financial overview and use of funds

      -Messages from our leadership

      -Future goals and plans

      This report is a great way to see the real-world difference your support makes. We're excited to share our progress and vision with you.

    • 2022 Form 990

      Our Form 990 is our annual financial report to the IRS. It provides a transparent look at our:

      -Mission and programs

      -Financial information

      -Leadership structure

      -Key accomplishments

      By reviewing this document, you can see exactly how we're using our resources to make a difference. We're proud to share this information with our supporters and the public.

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    New warehouse in Willits purchased in 2022 with the Food Bank Capacity Grant

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    Warehouse purchased in 2022 with the Food Bank Capacity Grant

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    Two times a month Mendo Food Network coordinates a drive through food distribution

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    We serve over two hundred households at each distribution

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    Receiving more deliveries than ever before

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    Receiving larger truckloads of food is now possible

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    Pallet racking will provide more storage than ever before

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    Our temporary cold storage until our new refrigeration is installed

    The home of Mendo Food Network

    This 15,000-square-foot facility was recently purchased in 2022 with the help of the Food Bank Capacity grant through CDSS (Department of Social Services). This initiative helped us to realize our dream of creating a more efficient way to receive, store, and distribute food throughout our network of Food Distribution partners.


    This project is not complete without your help. This facility needs a commercial walk-in freezer and cooler, an updated roof, repaved parking lot for efficient deliveries, and updates to the interior and exterior. Find out more about our facility expansion project."

    The 2024 Annual Report

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