Maria Khalifa, CalFresh Outreach Coordinator

​Maria is a dedicated and passionate CalFresh Outreach Coordinator with a diverse and robust background in the social services field. Her experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Medical Technician provides a strong clinical foundation that informs her methodical and compassionate approach to student support at Wesley House. Her journey into student support began during her time as a Family Housing Case Manager, where she worked closely with families from all backgrounds juggling all aspects of life while facing serious challenges with food, school, work and housing insecurity. That experience shaped her belief that access to basic needs like nutritious food and stable housing is not just a matter of survival, but a foundation for success in higher education.
 
Maria knows that having even one person in your corner, who shows up and isn’t afraid to get in the trenches alongside you can change the entire course of a student’s life. She deeply understands the power of that kind of support because she’s seen firsthand how having someone who cheers you on gives you the courage to keep going, even when everything feels impossible.

​Maria is ready and willing to stand beside students through challenging times, knowing that this unwavering support doesn’t just help them survive, but it empowers them to cross the finish line and turn their dreams into reality.