Vancouver Food Pantry Executive Departs for New Role

James Fitzgerald leaves Westside Food Pantry after helping guide the nonprofit through challenging times.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:09pm

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The executive director of downtown Vancouver's Westside Food Pantry, James Fitzgerald, will be leaving his position later this month to take on a new role as director of operations at Glenwood Church, where he has been a longtime congregant. Fitzgerald became FISH of Vancouver's first paid director in 2018 and helped the nonprofit navigate the growing affordability crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic during his tenure.

Why it matters

Fitzgerald's departure represents a significant transition for the Westside Food Pantry, which has relied on his leadership to support the community through difficult economic times. His exit raises questions about the future direction and continuity of the organization's operations.

The details

James Fitzgerald has served as the executive director of the Westside Food Pantry in downtown Vancouver since 2018, when he became the first paid director of FISH of Vancouver, the nonprofit that operates the food pantry. During his time leading the organization, Fitzgerald helped guide the pantry through the challenges posed by the region's growing affordability crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Fitzgerald will be leaving his role at the end of April 2026.
  • He became the first paid director of FISH of Vancouver in 2018.

The players

James Fitzgerald

The outgoing executive director of the Westside Food Pantry in downtown Vancouver, who is departing to take a new role as director of operations at Glenwood Church.

Westside Food Pantry

A food pantry located in downtown Vancouver, operated by the nonprofit FISH of Vancouver.

FISH of Vancouver

The nonprofit organization that operates the Westside Food Pantry in downtown Vancouver.

Glenwood Church

The church where James Fitzgerald will be taking on a new role as director of operations, after departing his position at the Westside Food Pantry.

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What they’re saying

“He'll be hard to replace. James has been an incredible leader for our organization and has really helped us through some challenging times.”

— Unnamed FISH of Vancouver board member

What’s next

The Westside Food Pantry will need to find a new executive director to lead the organization following Fitzgerald's departure later this month.

The takeaway

Fitzgerald's exit from the Westside Food Pantry highlights the importance of consistent leadership for nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable communities, especially during times of economic uncertainty and crisis.