At Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB), every team member brings a unique story and drive for our mission, and Tanisha Raymond's embodies the spirit of service. A proud Austin native, Tanisha has built her life around serving others, a passion deeply rooted in her family and upbringing.
From Culinary Aspirations to a Career in Service
Growing up in East Austin, Tanisha was surrounded by the aroma of family recipes and the warmth of shared meals. Her family's legacy in the culinary world inspired her to pursue her own path in food, earning an associate's degree in culinary arts.
"Food is the way [my family] conversated,” said Tanisha. “I just have this genuine love for food and how it makes people feel."
Her career took her from kitchens to the hospitality industry, where she thrived in customer service and management roles. But it was during her time volunteering with her church — cooking and distributing meals to unhoused neighbors — that Tanisha discovered her deeper calling.
"I can cook, cook, cook," she said with a smile, reminiscing about her love for food and its ability to bring people together.
Tanisha attributes her passion for giving back to her mother and grandmother, who were constant examples of generosity and kindness.
"My mom was such a giver," Tanisha shared as she reflected on how her family would share food or give a ride to neighbors and friends in need. "It's second nature for me. I have to meet people's needs."
Transforming Communities Through School Pantries
Tanisha joined CTFB in 2021, bringing her passion for service and a strong desire to make a difference. Starting as a Food Sourcing Coordinator, she quickly transitioned into a role coordinating school pantries and programs for children. Today, as the Children Programs Coordinator, Tanisha plays a vital role in implementing the Feeding Futures School Pantry Program (FFSPP) and supporting college hunger programs across Central Texas.
Her work is a labor of love, combining logistics, training, and community collaboration to ensure students and families have access to nutritious food. Tanisha enjoys shepherding a school community into launching a new pantry — she says everyone is ready to help.
"You see the blank canvas of a room at a school, and it's just mind-blowing how rewarding it is when you see the finished product,” she said.
To date, Tanisha has supported CTFB in launching nine FFSPPs.
Fueling Change, Inspiring Hope
Beyond her work at CTFB, Tanisha dreams of starting her own nonprofit to support unhoused individuals with hot meals, showers, and essential resources. But for now, she's focused on growing within CTFB and continuing to build impactful programs.
At CTFB, Tanisha's warmth, energy, and dedication to serving the community shine through in everything she does. Whether she's setting up a pantry, recruiting new schools, or training partners on food distribution systems, her impact is felt far and wide.
Tanisha embodies the heart of CTFB's mission: nourishing communities, empowering individuals, and creating pathways to a brighter future. Her story is a reminder that through passion and service, we can all make a lasting difference.
Ready to make a difference in your community? Join our team!
