#MemberMonday: Community Action of Napa Valley

Community Action of Napa Valley (CANV) has been a pillar of service in Napa County for more than 60 years. Rooted in community and built on a commitment to dignity, CANV operates with one goal in mind: to ensure every neighbor has access to the food and support they need to thrive.

“We serve the whole person. Food is just the beginning,” says Executive Director, Drene Johnson.

That mission comes to life every day at CANV’s seven food pantry locations, which stretch across the county and function more like welcoming neighborhood grocery stores. With digital kiosks in both English and Spanish, clients don’t just receive food, they’re connected to SNAP, WIC, Meals on Wheels, and referrals to Health & Human Services, helping to address multiple needs in one stop.

Consistent Service Across a Rural Landscape

Napa County’s rural geography poses real challenges to food access. Many communities, including Calistoga, St. Helena, and Pope Valley are far from major service hubs, with limited public transportation options. CANV has addressed this head-on by designing programs that bring food directly into neighborhoods where it’s most needed.

This includes consistent pantry operations, community-based distributions, and strong local partnerships that help reach seniors, working families, and individuals facing rising costs of living. With rising demand, CANV continues to increase efficiency without compromising the dignity and respect that define their work.

Addressing Hunger with Health in Mind

While CANV is best known for food access, they’re equally focused on how that food supports health and well-being. By incorporating nutrition education into many of their outreach efforts—and offering fresh, culturally appropriate foods—they ensure the groceries they distribute contribute meaningfully to the overall health of the community.

Collaborations with local partners, like St. Helena Community Hospital Foundation, also allow CANV to offer on-site health resources during food distributions, including blood pressure checks, vaccination clinics, and nutrition information.

Volunteer-Powered, Community-Led

CANV’s impact is made possible by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, including a growing group of student leaders through their “Gen Z for CANV” program. These youth volunteers assist with events, food drives, and Meals on Wheels outreach—bringing energy and local pride to everything they touch.

A Steady Hand in Crisis

Whether in response to wildfires, earthquakes, or the pandemic, CANV has consistently stepped up as a first responder. When supermarkets closed or roads were blocked, CANV ensured food continued to reach those who needed it most. Their role in community resilience continues today, supported by local partnerships and a strong infrastructure for emergency distribution.

Strength Through Collaboration

As a member of the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB), CANV benefits from statewide coordination, shared resources, and impactful programs like Programa de 'Farm to Family'. This partnership strengthens their ability to respond to rising needs while staying rooted in local values.

“Being a member of the California Association of Food Banks means we’re never alone in this work. CAFB amplifies our voice at the state level, ensures we’re equipped with tools and food resources to meet rising needs, and connects us to a powerful network of like-minded organizations. It’s a partnership rooted in equity, innovation, and real results.”

— Drene Johnson, Executive Director, Community Action of Napa Valley

The CANV Team

From pantry shelves to senior doorsteps, CANV’s work is rooted in care, community, and the simple belief that everyone deserves access to healthy food.

You can find Community Action of Napa Valley on Facebook, Instagram y YouTube.