CCS Network Builder Jose Ortiz and Tri-Parish Food Bank were recently recognized by Food Lifeline with their Equity Champion Award. This award recognizes an individual or organization’s commitment to ending hunger by working to counter racist systems, practices, and consequences that perpetuate it. “Through your work, you have responded with compassion and urgency to the disproportionate food insecurity and health impacts of COVID-19 on the Latinx community in Skagit County. We are humbled and inspired by your role as champions for equity in the community.”
Jose Ortiz is the CCS Northwest Regional Network Builder for Latino and Farmworker Communities and focuses most of his work in Island, Whatcom, Skagit, and Snohomish Counties. For 30 years, Jose and his wife Lilia have tried to pay it forward, by providing food and clothing, and dedicating their life to helping others. Jose has directed the Tri-Parish Food Bank and Youth Migrant Project since it was established by Father Mike Holland. The Tri-Parish Food Bank is a cooperative effort of St. Charles Catholic Church in Burlington, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Conner, and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Mount Vernon. Jose worked for the Archdiocese of Seattle for 16 years, as a director of the Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Hispanic community. Jose has dedicated his life to advocating for youth, those struggling with poverty, and communities of color, particularly farmworkers. He has served on many local, state, and national boards, including the CCS Board of Trustees. He believes that his biggest gift is bridging cultures and creating an environment where everyone has a place at the table.
Congratulations Jose and the Tri-Parish Food Bank!