The Board of Directors of the Emergency Food Bank of Stockton/San Joaquin County recently announced the appointment of Dr. Leonard O. Hansen, Ph.D. as the new CEO according to Steve Morales, Chair, Board of Directors.

Dr. Hansen began his work last month and quickly stepped into the new demands of the COVID-19 emergency. He comes to the Emergency Food Bank from Howard Training Center in Modesto where he served as Director of Operations for over five years, supervising training of adults with disabilities in multiple settings. He managed the Senior Meals-On-Wheels Program for Stanislaus County which, also, serves meals each day to the San Joaquin PHF, CSU, and Recovery House as well as other clinics and schools within Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. Dr. Hansen supervised Production Training Programs as well as three Adult Integration Programs.

He worked for over 25 years in the supermarket industry holding executive positions for Food4Less of Modesto, Fry’s Food & Drug Stores and Save Mart Supermarkets. He was a franchisee for Cold Stone Creameries throughout the Central Valley for many years. Prior to the jump into business, he taught business and professional speaking at Mount Union College in Ohio as well as teaching rhetoric and public speaking while earning his Ph.D. at Indiana University, and the M.A. and B.A. degrees from the University of California, Davis.

“We see the Emergency Food Bank as the focal point for food distribution to underserved families in Stockton,” Dr. Hansen noted, as he talked about goals to expand services and facilities at the Emergency Food Bank.

For over 50 years, with the support of many individuals and private, business, and governmental organizations, The Emergency Food Bank of Stockton/San Joaquin County has provided food for the needy. Due to the demand of the past few months with the increased unemployment, the Emergency Food Bank continues to meet the needs.

“We are grateful to be of service to those in need and to have Dr. Hansen leading the way with his passion and vision,” said Morales.

To receive food assistance, volunteer or donate, contact the Emergency Food Bank at 7 W. Scotts Ave., Stockton, CA 95203. Call (209) 464-7369 or visit www.StocktonFoodBank.org.