Foster care alumni for 11 years, foster care worker for over 17 years, trainer in child welfare for 2 years. I also worked with Wayne State University to create a school support program for young adults to graduate from a 4 year university.

Lara Pukatch joined Miriam’s Kitchen in June 2014. As the Director of Advocacy, she leads the organization's advocacy work to end chronic homelessness in DC through budget advocacy, systems improvements, and engaging people with lived experience in change . She has over 10 years of experience as a nonprofit advocacy professional with expertise in empowering vulnerable populations, leading coalitions, and facilitating large-scale institutional change. At Miriam's Kitchen, Lara wears many hats. She plays a pivotal role in supporting The Way Home Campaign and leads city-wide efforts to...