Humans of SLAHP

At South Los Angeles Health Projects we work diligently to improve the health and wellbeing of our participants. We pride ourselves in delivering excellent nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and community referrals.

Take some time to view the spotlights of our customer service champions.

WIC Nutrition Assistant & Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
Lirio Renteria

   

I currently serve as a WIC Nutrition Assistant (WNA) and Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (PC) with the Lundquist WIC Program. In this role, I provide nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and valuable resources to pregnant and postpartum families.

I was inspired to join WIC because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families within my community. As a mother myself, I understand the importance of support, encouragement, and access to reliable information during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the early years of parenting. That personal experience helps me connect with participants on a deeper level and fuels my passion for helping families achieve their goals.

What motivates me most is seeing the positive impact WIC has every day. Whether it’s helping a participant gain confidence in breastfeeding, connecting a family with helpful resources, or simply providing a listening ear and encouragement, it is rewarding to know that even small interactions can make a lasting difference.

One experience that stands out involved a mother who was struggling with breastfeeding and unsure if she could continue. She was experiencing pain, feeling overwhelmed, and worried that she was not producing enough milk for her baby. Through ongoing education, support, and encouragement, she gradually gained confidence and overcame many of the challenges she faced. Watching her transform from feeling discouraged and uncertain to feeling empowered and successful was incredibly rewarding and serves as a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

My time at Lundquist WIC has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Since joining the program in December 2024, I have strengthened my communication and counseling skills, gained confidence in supporting families, and learned the importance of meeting participants where they are with compassion and understanding.

As a mother, I know firsthand how valuable education, support, and accurate information can be during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Combined with my work at WIC, these experiences have deepened my commitment to helping families navigate their parenting and breastfeeding journeys.

Witnessing the impact that support and access to resources can have on families inspired me to further my education so I can continue helping bridge gaps in care for mothers and infants. I am currently participating in an IBCLC preparation program and working toward eligibility to sit for the IBCLC certification exam. The knowledge and skills I am gaining allow me to better serve the families in our community every day.

I have also learned that supporting families is truly a team effort. Successful breastfeeding support involves healthcare providers, lactation professionals, peer counselors, family members, support groups, and community resources working together to encourage and empower parents. Seeing that collaboration in action has strengthened my commitment to this work and reinforced my desire to continue helping families reach their goals.

When we empower one mother, the positive impact often extends to an entire family and, in many cases, throughout the community.

I am grateful to Lundquist WIC for supporting my professional growth and providing opportunities to continue learning. The encouragement and educational opportunities I have received have helped me grow tremendously, and I look forward to continuing to serve, support, and empower families while working toward my goal of becoming an IBCLC.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family. Making memories together, enjoying quality time, and taking a break from everyday responsibilities is my ideal way to spend a free day.

WIC Nutrition Assistant
Jackelinne Aguilar

Growing up in a low-income family that benefited from WIC services inspired me to give back in the same way my family was once supported. My personal values align closely with the Lundquist WIC mission of helping families live healthier lives through education, support, and access to essential resources. The opportunity to assist participants and make a positive difference in their lives continues to motivate me every day.

As a WIC Nutrition Assistant, I provide nutrition education, breast/chestfeeding support, and participant-centered services using motivational interviewing techniques. A typical day includes assisting participants both in person and over the phone. At the Central WIC Office, where we serve a high volume of families, I also support the diaper program, collect anthropometric and biometric measurements, and provide referrals as needed.

Working for the Lundquist WIC Program has helped me grow both professionally and personally. Through motivational interviewing and participant-centered education, I have strengthened my communication skills and learned how to better connect with the families we serve. These experiences have enhanced my effectiveness at work and positively impacted my everyday interactions as well.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my son and family. Some of my favorite activities include watching movies, playing with my son, and taking evening walks together.

WIC Nutrition Assistant
Ann Alaniz

Our third featured Champion of WIC is Ann Alaniz from our Cudahy WIC site. Let’s hearher story.

What is your official title at WIC?
My official title is WIC Nutrition Assistant (WNA).

What inspired you to join WIC, and what has kept you motivated in this work?
To be honest, I had never heard of WIC at the time. A friend who was working for WIC told me they were hiring. I was working as a Data Entry Clerk in shipping and receiving and also handled some HR responsibilities, including hiring new employees and processing payroll, for a warehouse distribution center at May Company (now Macy’s). I decided to give WIC a try.
What has kept me motivated over the years is the work I do for our participants and the difference I can make in their lives. It’s especially rewarding when a participant thanks you more than once during a conversation, whether it’s a new prenatal mom enrolling in the program or a mother who has recently welcomed her baby.

What is the most rewarding part of helping WIC participants and their families?
The most rewarding part of helping participants and their families is knowing they leave happy with the services, support, and information they receive.

What is something about you that your coworkers might be surprised to learn?

Something my coworkers may not know about me is that I attended cosmetology school. I learned all aspects of the profession and completed the required coursework. However, I eventually realized that working on other people’s feet was not for me. Practicing on family and friends was something I could do, but working with strangers was a different story. Since success in the field often requires providing a full range of services, I decided it wasn’t the right fit for me.

That said, I have no regrets. It was a different time in my life, and the experience taught me a lot. I’m very happy with the choice I made to work for WIC

WIC Nutrition Assistant
Leonor Flores

My name is Leonor Flores, and I’m a WIC Nutrition Assistant at the Compton WIC site. I started working for WIC on March 15, 1993. I feel very fortunate and very grateful to work for WIC.

What first drew you to this field, and how has your journey led you to WIC?

I was recommended by a friend to come and apply for WIC.

What is your favorite part about working for WIC?

My favorite part of my job is that is very exciting and I get to meet new people and have the opportunity to help them meet their nutritional needs. As well as learning from the participants.

What is a ‘hidden talent’ or a hobby you’re passionate about outside of work that most people might not know about?

I like to go for walks at the beach, and I love to do Zumba. As well as spending time with all my family.

Fiscal Administrative Assistant III
Silvia Santos

Hello, my name is Silvia Santos, and I am the Fiscal Administrative Assistant III at Lundquist WIC.
In 1989 I started working for WIC, marking 37 years with the organization. I first started as a clerk at one of the WIC sites and then moved to the Administrative Office where I currently work.
Although I was not specifically seeking WIC as my career, finding myself working for the organization has in many ways fulfilled my principles and some of my goals. I always felt motivated to help others, since it allows me to grow as a person and it gives me satisfaction to know that the work I do could have, directly and indirectly, had a positive impact on other people’s lives. One of the things I enjoy and appreciate from the organization are my coworkers since it is a diverse group and that has enriched me as a person.
I like to learn from the people that surround me, which helped me expand my knowledge and skills in my career.
Outside of work I am a busy mom, but I make time to spend with my family. I also like to walk, read, and view art, and whenever possible I go to museums and parks, and I sometimes dabble in making art in the form of drawings.

WIC Site Administrative Services Specialist,
Virginia

Hola, soy Virginia y soy parte del equipo de mantenimiento en Lundquist WIC. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia trabajando con WIC y actualmente apoyo la oficina de South Gate.

Lo que más me apasiona de mi trabajo es mantener el ambiente limpio y seguro para todos. Me gusta sentir que mi trabajo contribuye al bienestar de los demás, tanto compañeros como participantes de WIC. Siempre me he sentido bienvenida en WIC, y eso hace que mi trabajo sea aún más gratificante.

Fuera del trabajo, me encanta caminar por el centro comercial con mi esposo y, en primavera, disfruto mucho comprar plantas para mi jardín. Es un placer ver cómo mi jardín florece y se llena de vida.

WIC Nutrition Assistant,
Leonard Gray

Hi, I’m Leonard Gray, a WIC Nutrition Assistant at the Compton WIC Office. I have worked for WIC for over 15 years, 9 of which were with Lundquist WIC.

I am very passionate about providing platinum customer services, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. I also deeply appreciate the continued support from my immediate supervisors, Marisela Montoya, Nancy Avila, and Grace Galindo.

Outside of work, I enjoy riding my Harley-Davidson Motorcycle to Plam Springs and Las Vegas and wrestling with my three pitbulls, Coco, Chester, and Rosco, at home.

SLAHP Administrative Assistant,
Yesenia Raygoza

Hi my name is Yesenia Raygoza,

I joined the SLAHP Team in 1991 as a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor. I assisted in the Hospital-Based Peer Counselor Project and the Breastfeeding Helpline. In 2018, I was promoted to my current role of Administrative Assistant II in the Employee Benefits Unit.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, and in my free time, I enjoy being in a quiet place reading books that promote spiritual growth.

Degreed Nutritionist, WIC Special Nutrition Services
Odessa Salazar

Hello, I’m Odessa Salazar, a WIC Degree Nutritionist from the Florence WIC site. I have worked for WIC for over 23 years, three years in San Diego. I started working for WIC right out of college and continue to enjoy it.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is watching the children we serve grow from birth until they turn five years old and graduate from the WIC Program. As a WIC Degreed Nutritionist, I provide nutritional education and support for our women and children with health or medical conditions. I take great pride in ensuring these women and children get the extra nutritional support they need.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, and I love to bake and cook. My family recently got a puppy this summer, and we can’t wait to watch her grow and become part of our family.


Child Development Specialist / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Christina Perez, BS

Hello, my name is Christina Perez. I am a Child Development Specialist/ WIC Nutrition Assistant at the Huntington Park WIC Office. I was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from Cal State Dominguez Hills.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is hearing parents express that the referral I gave them has improved their child’s life.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my beautiful daughters. We enjoy the outdoors and travel a lot. Locally, we go to Big Bear and have visited Hawaii, Canada, and Cabo San Lucas, among others. I also enjoy carrying on a tradition my father started with my siblings and me. Going to watch Dodgers games is my favorite hobby!

WIC Nutritionist
Marisela Mora, BS


My name is Marisela Mora, and I am the Degreed Nutritionist at the Lynwood WIC site. I have been working for Lundquist WIC for four years.

My favorite part of my job is collaborating with participants to help them meet their needs. I enjoy providing individualized maternal and child nutrition education to our WIC families. I also enjoy working with individuals as passionate and committed to serving the community as I am.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, and attending concerts. I am also an animal lover who likes exploring nature and discovering new vegan restaurants.

Management Information System Manager
Josenoe Vargas, BS


My name is Josenoe Vargas, and I am the WIC Management Information System Manager at Lundquist WIC. I have worked with the agency for over five years and directly with WIC for 2+ years!

I am a first-generation Mexican-American born and raised in the South Bay of Los Angeles. I completed my undergraduate education in industrial technology at the California Polytechnic State University of San Luis Obispo. After working in the public and private sectors, I am now working for one of the most impactful non-profits in the nation that serves about 60,000 people a month!

Outside of work, I love to play soccer on the weekends, hike, explore new places to eat, travel, swim, paddleboard, and ski in the winter! My favorite hobbies are building computers, tinkering with electronics, and working on projects around the house while listening to audiobooks and podcasts. In addition, I am planning to start a Master’s program and share my future with all of you.

Child Development Specialist / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Maribel Renteria, AA


My name is Maribel Renteria and I am a WIC Nutrition Assistant and Child Development Specialist at Lundquist WIC. As a WIC Nutrition Assistant, I educate WIC participants on nutrition, provide breastfeeding support, and give community referrals. As a Child Development Specialist, I am trained in identifying development and psychological disorders in children. I work one-on one with children during the screening and diagnosis phase and I support parents through the process.

Outside of work, I love to go see plays, go bowling, and visit tranquil places. My dream vacation is to visit Israel. I spend a lot of time with my family. I enjoy watching movies and eating homemade foods. The families we provide services to and all the remarkable people I work with; are the reason I want to come to work each day. I am thankful for all the kindness of the families we serve and of the agency I work for.


Breastfeeding Peer Counselor / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Lilia Torres, CLE


Hi, I’m Lilia Torres and I’m a Peer Counselor/WIC Nutrition Assistant. I have worked 16-years at WIC and currently i am at the Central WIC site. I’m from Mexico anf live in Los Angeles here with my husband and three children.

My Favorite part of my job is working with the community and breastfeeding parents. I had engorgement with my first child and did not know. Therefore, I like to educate parents throughout their pregnancy so they don’t have the problems I had. Back then, we did not have the support we have now.

Outside of work I like to exercise by going to the gym twice a week, and crochet for myself and for others. I like to take walks during lunchtime 3 times per week. I like to travel and I have been traveling two to three times per year. I like to spend time with my family.

WIC Nutrition Assistant II
Theresa Martin

My name is Theresa Martin, and I am a WIC Nutritional Assistant II. I have worked for Lundquist WIC for 23 years.

My favorite part of the job is being in a role where I can make a difference in someone’s life. I am particularly passionate about providing nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and offering referrals as needed. I also deeply appreciate the support I receive from my coworkers daily.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, walking, and hiking. We hope to explore new places in the future.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Erika Monterrosas

Hi, I am Erika Monterrosas, a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor and WIC Nutrition Assistant. I’ve been working at the South Gate WIC Office for two years. I’m from Mexico City and came to the United States when I was 16. Since then, I have lived in LA County. I have worked at SLAHP for 18 years, helping my community reach their goals.

My favorite part of my job is all the people I meet, and I help them reach their breastfeeding and nutrition goals. Being a part of the South Gate Team has helped expand my wings with knowledge and experience.

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my family. One of my favorite things is to cook and work out. I enjoy hiking and exploring new places. My biggest dreams are to have my own restaurant and become a professional chef.

Child Development Specialist / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Noelia Gonzalez-Salas, AA

Hello, I am Noelia Gonzalez-Salas, the Child Development Specialist/Nutrition Assistant and the Little by Little Lead at the Manchester WIC office. I have been working for WIC for almost 20 years this year.
What I enjoy most about working at WIC is observing the excitement when preparing for Story Time and the parents listening attentively to the songs so they can sing them to their children at home. I also enjoy using the puppets to encourage problem-solving skills and revealing a book to the children as they await anxiously on the carpet. Another part of my job that I enjoy is giving hope to the parents by referring their children to the Regional Center.
Regarding hobbies, I enjoy experiencing nature through my camera lens by taking pictures of flowers, the ocean, rivers, and animals. I love creating memories.


At South Los Angeles Health Projects we work diligently to improve the health and wellbeing of our participants. We pride ourselves in delivering excellent nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and community referrals.

Take some time to view the spotlights of our customer service champions.

WIC Nutrition Assistant & Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
Lirio Renteria

   

I currently serve as a WIC Nutrition Assistant (WNA) and Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (PC) with the Lundquist WIC Program. In this role, I provide nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and valuable resources to pregnant and postpartum families.

I was inspired to join WIC because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families within my community. As a mother myself, I understand the importance of support, encouragement, and access to reliable information during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the early years of parenting. That personal experience helps me connect with participants on a deeper level and fuels my passion for helping families achieve their goals.

What motivates me most is seeing the positive impact WIC has every day. Whether it’s helping a participant gain confidence in breastfeeding, connecting a family with helpful resources, or simply providing a listening ear and encouragement, it is rewarding to know that even small interactions can make a lasting difference.

One experience that stands out involved a mother who was struggling with breastfeeding and unsure if she could continue. She was experiencing pain, feeling overwhelmed, and worried that she was not producing enough milk for her baby. Through ongoing education, support, and encouragement, she gradually gained confidence and overcame many of the challenges she faced. Watching her transform from feeling discouraged and uncertain to feeling empowered and successful was incredibly rewarding and serves as a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

My time at Lundquist WIC has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Since joining the program in December 2024, I have strengthened my communication and counseling skills, gained confidence in supporting families, and learned the importance of meeting participants where they are with compassion and understanding.

As a mother, I know firsthand how valuable education, support, and accurate information can be during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Combined with my work at WIC, these experiences have deepened my commitment to helping families navigate their parenting and breastfeeding journeys.

Witnessing the impact that support and access to resources can have on families inspired me to further my education so I can continue helping bridge gaps in care for mothers and infants. I am currently participating in an IBCLC preparation program and working toward eligibility to sit for the IBCLC certification exam. The knowledge and skills I am gaining allow me to better serve the families in our community every day.

I have also learned that supporting families is truly a team effort. Successful breastfeeding support involves healthcare providers, lactation professionals, peer counselors, family members, support groups, and community resources working together to encourage and empower parents. Seeing that collaboration in action has strengthened my commitment to this work and reinforced my desire to continue helping families reach their goals.

When we empower one mother, the positive impact often extends to an entire family and, in many cases, throughout the community.

I am grateful to Lundquist WIC for supporting my professional growth and providing opportunities to continue learning. The encouragement and educational opportunities I have received have helped me grow tremendously, and I look forward to continuing to serve, support, and empower families while working toward my goal of becoming an IBCLC.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family. Making memories together, enjoying quality time, and taking a break from everyday responsibilities is my ideal way to spend a free day.

WIC Nutrition Assistant
Jackelinne Aguilar

Growing up in a low-income family that benefited from WIC services inspired me to give back in the same way my family was once supported. My personal values align closely with the Lundquist WIC mission of helping families live healthier lives through education, support, and access to essential resources. The opportunity to assist participants and make a positive difference in their lives continues to motivate me every day.

As a WIC Nutrition Assistant, I provide nutrition education, breast/chestfeeding support, and participant-centered services using motivational interviewing techniques. A typical day includes assisting participants both in person and over the phone. At the Central WIC Office, where we serve a high volume of families, I also support the diaper program, collect anthropometric and biometric measurements, and provide referrals as needed.

Working for the Lundquist WIC Program has helped me grow both professionally and personally. Through motivational interviewing and participant-centered education, I have strengthened my communication skills and learned how to better connect with the families we serve. These experiences have enhanced my effectiveness at work and positively impacted my everyday interactions as well.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my son and family. Some of my favorite activities include watching movies, playing with my son, and taking evening walks together.

WIC Nutrition Assistant
Ann Alaniz

Our third featured Champion of WIC is Ann Alaniz from our Cudahy WIC site. Let’s hearher story.

What is your official title at WIC?
My official title is WIC Nutrition Assistant (WNA).

What inspired you to join WIC, and what has kept you motivated in this work?
To be honest, I had never heard of WIC at the time. A friend who was working for WIC told me they were hiring. I was working as a Data Entry Clerk in shipping and receiving and also handled some HR responsibilities, including hiring new employees and processing payroll, for a warehouse distribution center at May Company (now Macy’s). I decided to give WIC a try.
What has kept me motivated over the years is the work I do for our participants and the difference I can make in their lives. It’s especially rewarding when a participant thanks you more than once during a conversation, whether it’s a new prenatal mom enrolling in the program or a mother who has recently welcomed her baby.

What is the most rewarding part of helping WIC participants and their families?
The most rewarding part of helping participants and their families is knowing they leave happy with the services, support, and information they receive.

What is something about you that your coworkers might be surprised to learn?

Something my coworkers may not know about me is that I attended cosmetology school. I learned all aspects of the profession and completed the required coursework. However, I eventually realized that working on other people’s feet was not for me. Practicing on family and friends was something I could do, but working with strangers was a different story. Since success in the field often requires providing a full range of services, I decided it wasn’t the right fit for me.

That said, I have no regrets. It was a different time in my life, and the experience taught me a lot. I’m very happy with the choice I made to work for WIC

WIC Nutrition Assistant
Leonor Flores

My name is Leonor Flores, and I’m a WIC Nutrition Assistant at the Compton WIC site. I started working for WIC on March 15, 1993. I feel very fortunate and very grateful to work for WIC.

What first drew you to this field, and how has your journey led you to WIC?

I was recommended by a friend to come and apply for WIC.

What is your favorite part about working for WIC?

My favorite part of my job is that is very exciting and I get to meet new people and have the opportunity to help them meet their nutritional needs. As well as learning from the participants.

What is a ‘hidden talent’ or a hobby you’re passionate about outside of work that most people might not know about?

I like to go for walks at the beach, and I love to do Zumba. As well as spending time with all my family.

Fiscal Administrative Assistant III
Silvia Santos

Hello, my name is Silvia Santos, and I am the Fiscal Administrative Assistant III at Lundquist WIC.
In 1989 I started working for WIC, marking 37 years with the organization. I first started as a clerk at one of the WIC sites and then moved to the Administrative Office where I currently work.
Although I was not specifically seeking WIC as my career, finding myself working for the organization has in many ways fulfilled my principles and some of my goals. I always felt motivated to help others, since it allows me to grow as a person and it gives me satisfaction to know that the work I do could have, directly and indirectly, had a positive impact on other people’s lives. One of the things I enjoy and appreciate from the organization are my coworkers since it is a diverse group and that has enriched me as a person.
I like to learn from the people that surround me, which helped me expand my knowledge and skills in my career.
Outside of work I am a busy mom, but I make time to spend with my family. I also like to walk, read, and view art, and whenever possible I go to museums and parks, and I sometimes dabble in making art in the form of drawings.

WIC Site Administrative Services Specialist,
Virginia

Hola, soy Virginia y soy parte del equipo de mantenimiento en Lundquist WIC. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia trabajando con WIC y actualmente apoyo la oficina de South Gate.

Lo que más me apasiona de mi trabajo es mantener el ambiente limpio y seguro para todos. Me gusta sentir que mi trabajo contribuye al bienestar de los demás, tanto compañeros como participantes de WIC. Siempre me he sentido bienvenida en WIC, y eso hace que mi trabajo sea aún más gratificante.

Fuera del trabajo, me encanta caminar por el centro comercial con mi esposo y, en primavera, disfruto mucho comprar plantas para mi jardín. Es un placer ver cómo mi jardín florece y se llena de vida.

WIC Nutrition Assistant,
Leonard Gray

Hi, I’m Leonard Gray, a WIC Nutrition Assistant at the Compton WIC Office. I have worked for WIC for over 15 years, 9 of which were with Lundquist WIC.

I am very passionate about providing platinum customer services, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. I also deeply appreciate the continued support from my immediate supervisors, Marisela Montoya, Nancy Avila, and Grace Galindo.

Outside of work, I enjoy riding my Harley-Davidson Motorcycle to Plam Springs and Las Vegas and wrestling with my three pitbulls, Coco, Chester, and Rosco, at home.

SLAHP Administrative Assistant,
Yesenia Raygoza

Hi my name is Yesenia Raygoza,

I joined the SLAHP Team in 1991 as a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor. I assisted in the Hospital-Based Peer Counselor Project and the Breastfeeding Helpline. In 2018, I was promoted to my current role of Administrative Assistant II in the Employee Benefits Unit.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, and in my free time, I enjoy being in a quiet place reading books that promote spiritual growth.

Degreed Nutritionist, WIC Special Nutrition Services
Odessa Salazar

Hello, I’m Odessa Salazar, a WIC Degree Nutritionist from the Florence WIC site. I have worked for WIC for over 23 years, three years in San Diego. I started working for WIC right out of college and continue to enjoy it.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is watching the children we serve grow from birth until they turn five years old and graduate from the WIC Program. As a WIC Degreed Nutritionist, I provide nutritional education and support for our women and children with health or medical conditions. I take great pride in ensuring these women and children get the extra nutritional support they need.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, and I love to bake and cook. My family recently got a puppy this summer, and we can’t wait to watch her grow and become part of our family.


Child Development Specialist / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Christina Perez, BS

Hello, my name is Christina Perez. I am a Child Development Specialist/ WIC Nutrition Assistant at the Huntington Park WIC Office. I was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from Cal State Dominguez Hills.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is hearing parents express that the referral I gave them has improved their child’s life.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my beautiful daughters. We enjoy the outdoors and travel a lot. Locally, we go to Big Bear and have visited Hawaii, Canada, and Cabo San Lucas, among others. I also enjoy carrying on a tradition my father started with my siblings and me. Going to watch Dodgers games is my favorite hobby!

WIC Nutritionist
Marisela Mora, BS


My name is Marisela Mora, and I am the Degreed Nutritionist at the Lynwood WIC site. I have been working for Lundquist WIC for four years.

My favorite part of my job is collaborating with participants to help them meet their needs. I enjoy providing individualized maternal and child nutrition education to our WIC families. I also enjoy working with individuals as passionate and committed to serving the community as I am.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, and attending concerts. I am also an animal lover who likes exploring nature and discovering new vegan restaurants.

Management Information System Manager
Josenoe Vargas, BS


My name is Josenoe Vargas, and I am the WIC Management Information System Manager at Lundquist WIC. I have worked with the agency for over five years and directly with WIC for 2+ years!

I am a first-generation Mexican-American born and raised in the South Bay of Los Angeles. I completed my undergraduate education in industrial technology at the California Polytechnic State University of San Luis Obispo. After working in the public and private sectors, I am now working for one of the most impactful non-profits in the nation that serves about 60,000 people a month!

Outside of work, I love to play soccer on the weekends, hike, explore new places to eat, travel, swim, paddleboard, and ski in the winter! My favorite hobbies are building computers, tinkering with electronics, and working on projects around the house while listening to audiobooks and podcasts. In addition, I am planning to start a Master’s program and share my future with all of you.

Child Development Specialist / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Maribel Renteria, AA


My name is Maribel Renteria and I am a WIC Nutrition Assistant and Child Development Specialist at Lundquist WIC. As a WIC Nutrition Assistant, I educate WIC participants on nutrition, provide breastfeeding support, and give community referrals. As a Child Development Specialist, I am trained in identifying development and psychological disorders in children. I work one-on one with children during the screening and diagnosis phase and I support parents through the process.

Outside of work, I love to go see plays, go bowling, and visit tranquil places. My dream vacation is to visit Israel. I spend a lot of time with my family. I enjoy watching movies and eating homemade foods. The families we provide services to and all the remarkable people I work with; are the reason I want to come to work each day. I am thankful for all the kindness of the families we serve and of the agency I work for.


Breastfeeding Peer Counselor / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Lilia Torres, CLE


Hi, I’m Lilia Torres and I’m a Peer Counselor/WIC Nutrition Assistant. I have worked 16-years at WIC and currently i am at the Central WIC site. I’m from Mexico anf live in Los Angeles here with my husband and three children.

My Favorite part of my job is working with the community and breastfeeding parents. I had engorgement with my first child and did not know. Therefore, I like to educate parents throughout their pregnancy so they don’t have the problems I had. Back then, we did not have the support we have now.

Outside of work I like to exercise by going to the gym twice a week, and crochet for myself and for others. I like to take walks during lunchtime 3 times per week. I like to travel and I have been traveling two to three times per year. I like to spend time with my family.

WIC Nutrition Assistant II
Theresa Martin

My name is Theresa Martin, and I am a WIC Nutritional Assistant II. I have worked for Lundquist WIC for 23 years.

My favorite part of the job is being in a role where I can make a difference in someone’s life. I am particularly passionate about providing nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and offering referrals as needed. I also deeply appreciate the support I receive from my coworkers daily.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, walking, and hiking. We hope to explore new places in the future.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Erika Monterrosas

Hi, I am Erika Monterrosas, a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor and WIC Nutrition Assistant. I’ve been working at the South Gate WIC Office for two years. I’m from Mexico City and came to the United States when I was 16. Since then, I have lived in LA County. I have worked at SLAHP for 18 years, helping my community reach their goals.

My favorite part of my job is all the people I meet, and I help them reach their breastfeeding and nutrition goals. Being a part of the South Gate Team has helped expand my wings with knowledge and experience.

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my family. One of my favorite things is to cook and work out. I enjoy hiking and exploring new places. My biggest dreams are to have my own restaurant and become a professional chef.

Child Development Specialist / WIC Nutrition Assistant I
Noelia Gonzalez-Salas, AA

Hello, I am Noelia Gonzalez-Salas, the Child Development Specialist/Nutrition Assistant and the Little by Little Lead at the Manchester WIC office. I have been working for WIC for almost 20 years this year.
What I enjoy most about working at WIC is observing the excitement when preparing for Story Time and the parents listening attentively to the songs so they can sing them to their children at home. I also enjoy using the puppets to encourage problem-solving skills and revealing a book to the children as they await anxiously on the carpet. Another part of my job that I enjoy is giving hope to the parents by referring their children to the Regional Center.
Regarding hobbies, I enjoy experiencing nature through my camera lens by taking pictures of flowers, the ocean, rivers, and animals. I love creating memories.