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Our Team

Amy Gonzales

Amy Gonzales (She, Her)

Project Director | Chico State CalFresh

BS, Nutrition and Food Science (California State University, Chico; 2005)
MS, Nutritional Science (California State University, Chico; 2007)
Registered Dietitian (California State University, Chico; 2008)

Amy Gonzales is a Project Director who has worked at Center for Healthy Communities since 2008. Amy is a Registered Dietitian and holds a holding a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in nutrition science from California State University, Chico. Amy’s background is in teaching, community-based nutrition education, and policy, system, and environmental change. Amy’s favorite vegetables to eat are artichokes.

Gina Sims

Gina Sims (She, Her)

Program Manager | Chico State CalFresh

BA, Anthropology, CSU, Chico 1995
MIT, Masters in Teaching, K-8 Education, Seattle University, 2000

Gina Sims is a program manager who has worked at Center for Healthy Communities since 2023, and she previously worked at CHC from 2004 – 2013 as a health education and media specialist. Gina holds a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from California State University, Chico, and a master’s degree in education from Seattle University. Gina’s background is in education, school gardens, public health, and local food systems. Gina’s favorite things to grow in the garden include figs, arugula, and parsley.

Melys Bonifacio-Jerez

Melys Bonifacio-Jerez (She/They/Ella)

Program Assistant

B.A. Sociology

Melys Bonifacio-Jerez is a Program assistant who has worked at Center for Healthy Communities since 2023. Melys holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from California State University, Chico. Melys’ background is in resiliency, sustainability, anti-racism, and social justice. Melys’ favorite things to grow are tomatoes, roses, and rosemary.

Che Yang

Che Yang (She, Her)

Program Manager | CalFresh Outreach Resource Hub

B.A. Psychology (CSU, Chico, 2009)

Che Yang is a Program Manager who has worked at Center for Healthy Communities since 2018. Che holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from California State University, Chico. Che’s background is in food access, statewide county partnerships, systemic food policy changes, and advocacy. Che’s favorite pastime is creating and preparing nourishing bento boxes.

Stop by! Walk-Ins Are Welcome!

Basic Needs Center, SSC 190A

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Basic Needs Center, SSC 190A

Monday 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Tuesday 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Wednesday 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Thursday 9:00AM - 2:00PM
Friday Closed

Center for Healthy Communities

25 Main St #101, Chico, CA 95926
Chico State CalFresh ©2023

This website is funded by California Department of Social Services, and USDA SNAP.
USDA SNAP is known in California as CalFresh, an equal opportunity provider and employer.
CalFresh is a California State University, Chico Partner

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