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A First in the Nation: Universal Free Meal Program
West Valley–Mission Community College District (WVMCCD) is making history. With Thomas Cuisine as its dining partner, the District has launched the nation’s first universal free meal program at a U.S. community college. Starting this fall, every in-person student at West Valley College and Mission College will have access to at least one freshly prepared, nutritious meal every school day — at no cost.
The initiative is paired with the grand opening of newly renovated cafés and coffee shops at both campuses, designed to meet evolving student needs and create welcoming spaces for dining and connection.
“This grand opening marks the beginning of something much bigger — a dining experience rooted in equity, nourishment, and partnership,” shares Alison Patt, President and CEO of Thomas Cuisine. “Together with West Valley-Mission, we’re proud to create welcoming spaces where every student has access to real, nourishing food, supporting not just their health but their ability to thrive in every part of campus life.”
“When students have access to healthy meals and welcoming spaces, the benefits extend far beyond campus,” shares Bradley J. Davis, Chancellor at WVMCCD. “We are strengthening not only academic outcomes but also the health and vitality of the entire community we serve.”
“Our partnership with Thomas Cuisine brings together a shared commitment to fresh, scratch-made food and a genuine care for students,” adds Chancellor Bradley Davis. “By working side by side, we’ve created dining spaces that nourish, inspire, and reflect the inclusive spirit of West Valley and Mission Colleges.”
Renovated Dining Spaces Built for Students
The District partnered with Thomas Cuisine to design cafés that accommodate higher volume and enhance accessibility. These spaces are intended as central gathering places for daily meals and student life, and will also host community activities such as chef demos and teaching kitchens.
Dining at West Valley College
Explore full dining options at West Valley College Campus Dining.
- The Oak Bistro (Campus Center) – A full-service café offering customizable burritos, fusion poke bowls, global tacos, hearth-fired pizzas, soups, and rotating seasonal entrées.
- Café Vasona (Campus Center) – A coffee shop featuring handcrafted Starbucks® beverages, teas, pastries, and light bites.
- Grab-and-Go & Vending – Convenient snacks and beverages available around the clock.
Dining at Mission College
See more at Mission College Campus Dining.
- Mission 75 Kitchen (Campus Center) – A vibrant café featuring chef-inspired, scratch-made meals such as burritos, fusion bowls, hearth pizzas, and global entrées.
- The Owl (Student Engagement Center) – A coffee shop featuring Peet’s Coffee®, specialty drinks, sandwiches, and pastries.
- Vending & Grab-and-Go – Fresh, nutritious snacks and beverages available 24/7.
Looking Ahead
Together with West Valley–Mission Community College District, we are demonstrating how foodservice management can transform campus life. With renovated cafés, vibrant coffee shops, and the nation’s first universal meal program, this partnership is redefining what it means to support students with REAL food and genuine service.
Taste the REAL food difference with Thomas Cuisine. To learn more about how we can partner with your institution for campus dining foodservice management, connect with us today
