Sonoma Family Meal Expands Unity Kitchen

Sonoma Family Meal (SFM) is proud to announce that we are stepping into a new chapter of expansion, by expanding upon the Unity Kitchen program, that has already been vital to those in need, and taking it to a deeper level—tackling food insecurity at the root! Sonoma Family Meal will help create real pathways for people out of food insecurity by adding culinary workforce development programs and small business incubation support.

This fall, we officially assumed operations of Unity Kitchen in Sonoma Valley after the acquisition of Sonoma Overnight Support (SOS). And while the kitchen already plays a vital role in meeting daily food needs of those facing food insecurity due to struggle with finances or lack of access for other factors, what comes next will be even more impactful

A Steady Source of Nourishment for the Springs Community

Every weekday, Unity Kitchen serves more than 200 meals to neighbors who need them most. That work continues without pause under Sonoma Family Meal, supported by trusted partners such as La Luz, who offer additional wrap-around support services to anyone who walks through the door.

Because food is care. But care also means connection, stability, and dignity.

Honoring a Legacy of Local Compassion

Before Unity Kitchen became what it is today, a group of Sonoma volunteers came together in the late 1990s with a clear intention: to help people experiencing homelessness feel safe and supported.

Their efforts led to:

2003: Founding of Sonoma Overnight Support (SOS)
2007: Opening of The Haven, a four-bedroom home with shelter, laundry, and showers
2021–2023: An expansion of food programs and the creation of Unity Kitchen

Last year alone, SOS staff and volunteers provided over 72,000 meals to people facing food insecurity. It was a labor of love—and a reflection of Sonoma Valley’s values.

But when federal funding cuts hit hard and demand increased, SOS sought a partner who could help carry the mission forward in a more fiscally sustainable way. With help from the Catalyst Fund, they approached SFM in early 2025, and on September 2, 2025, we officially stepped up to continue their important work.

What’s Coming Next: Expanding from Meals to Opportunity

Beginning in 2026, SFM will launch two new programs designed in collaboration with La Luz and Sonoma Teen Services:

🌱 Teen Culinary Apprenticeship

A hands-on program that gives local youth real kitchen experience, mentorship, and pathways to income and leadership.

🔥 Small Business Food Business Incubator

A supportive space for emerging food entrepreneurs to develop their craft, test ideas, and access shared kitchen resources.

These expansions will help address the root causes of food insecurity by helping people build skills that open doors to stable careers and new ways to support themselves and their families.

Simply put: Unity Kitchen will nourish people today, and create opportunities for tomorrow.

Why This Work Fits So Naturally Into SFM’s Mission

At our Petaluma community kitchen, SFM already prepares thousands of meals each month, rescues food that would otherwise go to waste, and provides tuition-free culinary job training for people facing barriers to employment.

These skills, systems, and partnerships are exactly what make it possible for us to responsibly expand into Sonoma Valley—and to strengthen the sustainability of programs by raising revenue through social enterprises like Catering with a Cause and our community cooking classes.

Unity Kitchen is becoming a true hub for:

Daily nourishment
Workforce development
Food business innovation
Community partnerships
Economic resilience

And it’s just the beginning.

Support Our Mission – Sonoma Family Meal

Our bright future is supported in part by community members like you! Whether through hiring our catering services, donating time or money, or simply sharing our story, we encourage you to get involved!

Elana NelsonDecember 22, 2025