Founder & CEO

Marcia White is the visionary leader of the Whitby Specialty Food Bank, where she combines over 40 years of nursing expertise with a decade of food bank coordination to address food insecurity with compassion and innovation. Her extensive healthcare background allows her to seamlessly integrate health management and education into the food bank’s mission, offering holistic support that uplifts individuals and families in need.

As a strong advocate for the homeless, Marcia’s impact extends beyond the food bank. She has organized and led numerous health-focused events, leveraging her skills to promote wellness and foster a sense of dignity within the community. Her leadership inspires collaboration, bringing together teams and community members to tackle hunger with empathy and forward-thinking solutions.

Vice President

Nadine Stewart is a dynamic and strategic leader with a unique blend of entrepreneurial and corporate experience. Her expertise in sales, marketing, and account management has driven growth and created impactful solutions throughout her career. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Nadine has volunteered as an Administrative Assistant at a local food bank for over four years, deepening her connection to the community. Her role as Vice President reflects her passion for fostering long-term change by combining business expertise with hands-on service, ensuring that the Whitby Specialty Food Bank thrives in its mission to serve those in need.

Vice President Finance

Novlyn Thetford-Johnson oversees the financial strategy and sustainability of the Whitby Specialty Food Bank, bringing 38 years of experience in senior roles at one of Canada’s Big-5 Banks. Her expertise in strategic planning, resource allocation, and financial stewardship ensures the food bank operates efficiently while maximizing its impact. Novlyn’s ability to manage complex budgets and optimize resources reflects her commitment to financial integrity. Combined with her passion for community service, she provides a solid foundation for the food bank’s vital work and long-term success.

Board Member

Rhonda Brewster brings compassion, patience, and wisdom to the food bank operations.  She is an educator, and her holistic approach emphasizes care for the body, mind and spirit, enriching the food bank’s mission to provide comprehensive support individual’s and families.  Her leadership ensures that the food bank remains a beacon of hope and a source of encouragement for the community.

Director Communications & Programming

Addie Batson is a results-driven leader with extensive experience in designing and managing impactful community programs. With a background in customer success and strategic operations, Addie brings a unique perspective to their role as Program Director. They oversee initiatives that provide essential resources while fostering meaningful connections with the community. Addie’s innovative approach ensures that every program is both effective and sustainable, addressing immediate needs while building pathways for long-term success. Their dedication to creating a compassionate and thriving community aligns perfectly with the food bank’s mission to serve and uplift those in need.

Community Advocacy and Board Member

Maleeha Shahid is a dedicated community advocate with a proven track record of leadership and service. As a Whitby Town Councillor and successful entrepreneur in the real estate sector, she brings valuable insights into community-building and strategic planning. Maleeha is an active Rotary Club member and the Mayor’s designate on key local committees, demonstrating her deep commitment to fostering a thriving, connected community. At the Whitby Specialty Food Bank, she champions collaboration and advocacy, working to ensure the food bank remains a vital resource for families in need while promoting initiatives that strengthen Whitby’s future.

Compliance Operations Consultant

Judie Wood brings more than two decades of experience in compliance, operations, and project management to her role as Compliance Consultant. Her career includes senior leadership positions major at Canadian banks where she managed large-scale projects and drove organizational efficiency. At the Whitby Specialty Food Bank, Judie ensures that all operations adhere to regulatory standards while fostering transparency and accountability. Her meticulous attention to detail and strategic insights play a crucial role in maintaining the food bank’s credibility and operational excellence, ensuring that it continues to serve the community with the highest standards of care.