Fueling the future through food
Ujima Hunger Coalition emerges to tackle a big challenge: 1 in 5 American kids don't know when their next meal is coming. Our name "Ujima" means "collective work and responsibility" in Swahili - because we believe if we can do something, we should do something to ensure the most vulnerable in our communities are cared for and have the best chance at a bright and thriving future. And because we know that reducing food insecurity for our children is an investment in our future with massive returns.
The Ujima Hunger Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to tackling food insecurity among America's youth. UHC aims to establish state sponsorships and foster local partnerships, creating multiple sustainable pathways to nourish children when they are out of school.
Armed with shelf-stable meals and expert guidance, organizations are better positioned to enhance food access for children impacted by poverty.
At the Ujima Hunger Coalition, we are committed to breaking the cycle of hunger and food insecurity through innovative, community-driven solutions. Our work focuses on empowering organizations and communities to create sustainable meal programs that ensure children have access to the nutrition they need to grow, learn, and thrive. From capacity building and technical assistance to ongoing program support, we are dedicated to helping communities build brighter, healthier futures.
We excel in meal quality and innovation
We offer nutritious meals that exceed standard nutritional guidelines. With a wide network of vendor partners, we provide variety, flexibility, and prioritize quality foods kids enjoy eating.
We remove barriers by offering expert technical assistance
We enthusiastically share our expertise through comprehensive training and expert advice on executing efficient meal programs tailored to each community's unique needs. Through ongoing support and collaboration, we strengthen the capacity of local organizations to address food insecurity among children effectively.
We simplify and decode the complicated administrative tasks
As a qualified Sponsor, we eliminate the guesswork in navigating USDA child meal programs. Our comprehensive services help prevent programs from falling under financial strain and potential shutdown. And our expertise and guidance ensure that programs are efficiently managed and compliant with all USDA regulations to safeguard sustainability and continuity.
We leverage collective strengths to expand food access
We bring together dedicated, knowledgeable experts and community partners to identify and advance solutions for reducing hunger. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we strengthen efforts to ensure consistent and sustainable access to food for underserved children and families.
Guided by our values, driven by our mission
Our Superpower
Listening
Empathy and lived experience guide us in deeply understanding the needs of those we serve
Our Foundation
Integrity
We consistently do what's right for each other and the communities we serve
Our Strength
Collaboration
Trusting in diverse perspectives, we actively seek out different opinions to drive innovation
Our Drive
Solution-Minded
We refuse mediocrity. We courageously pioneer bold solutions and blaze new trails
Our Promise
Accountability and Commitment
We are driven by outcomes and committed to delivering the best for our partners and the children we seek to help
Our Journey
Progress Not Perfection
Embracing mistakes, we learn and grow, moving closer to the right solutions
Our Leadership Team
Meet the passionate team of professionals with decades of combined experience working alongside school districts, sponsors, sites, and non-profits to combat hunger and create lasting change. With expertise in strategic planning, partnerships, operations, program development, and community engagement, we work tirelessly to drive innovative solutions and partnerships, striving for a world where no one goes hungry.
Brian Wieher
Executive Director
Dr. James Gillespie, PhD, JD, MPA, MS
Board President
Shawn Mason
CEO
Hank Morton
Secretary
Kevin Costello
Treasurer
Brett Haydin
Advisory Board Member
Rachel Mohler, MS, RD, LDN
Advisory Board Member
Dr. Lucinda Perry-Jones
Advisory Board Member
Dr. Keven Vicknair
Advisory Board Member