Together, we can transform lives, —one act of service at a time.
At the heart of our foundation lies a commitment to service, inclusion, and impact. Founded by Bren Herrera, a celebrated chef, TV host, and advocate with more than 25 years of experience in volunteerism and community engagement, our mission is to uplift and support the most vulnerable populations across Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland. From providing resources to the homeless to addressing the needs of marginalized and disenfranchised groups, including immigrant communities, we strive to create sustainable solutions and meaningful change.
Service is not just a value—it’s the driving force behind everything we do. This passion is shared by our dedicated team of volunteers and directors, who bring their own sense of responsibility to building healthy and thriving communities. Guided by the same principles that fuel our founder’s work, they mirror her commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity. Together, we form a strong and unified team capable of executing our mission with impact and purpose.
Our cornerstone program, now in its ninth year, exemplifies this dedication. It has become a beacon of hope during the holidays, connecting people in need—including immigrant families and other underserved groups—with essential support and care in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
Through the power of collaboration, compassion, and action, we aim to bridge gaps and build stronger, more inclusive communities across the DMV area.
Watch the video to learn more about our story, our impact, and how you can join us in making a difference.
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Our Partners
Bren Herrera
Founder + Executive Director
Bren Herrera is a celebrated culinary artist, TV host, author, speaker and passionate community advocate known for her work on ‘Culture Kitchen’ and her dedication to cultural representation and inclusion. Bren’s advocacy and awareness of community needs started when she was a child and started honing in while working in corporate law. There she did important pro bono work for the AIDS community in Washington DC, and later producing night events in Atlanta. Her passion for serving under privileged and underrepresented communities started building there. In 2008, after the devastating tornado that crushed Haiti and the tsunami that took millions of lives in Japan, Bren formed and started hosting culinary events and fundraisers to provide aid relief to groups needing assistance.
For almost a decade, Bren supported Share Our Strength and it’s food program, No Kid Hungry, as a volunteer chef and social advocate, developing and offering food instruction and classes to men and women on government assistance.
Get Involved. You can help us make a difference!
Our organization serves thousands of families and children every year. We are able to grow and have lasting impact through the kindness and generosity of sponsors, partners, and volunteers. We look forward to you getting involved!
Mission Statement
The Bren Herrera Foundation empowers marginalized communities in the Washington, D.C.-area, by providing essential resources, advocacy, and programs that promote dignity, equity, and lasting impact.