West Valley Approves New Universal Meal Program

The California Community College system is the largest postsecondary educational system in the nation, serving 2.6 million students in over 100 different colleges.1 Yet according to a study conducted by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research regarding students’ access to basic needs, 71% of California Community College students reported being food insecure.2

While food is often thought of as a basic need, the impacts of having access to high-quality, nutritious food is anything but basic, especially for students. Evidence-based research has shown that students that have access to high quality dining options experience several benefits including better academic performance, improved mental health, and greater energy levels. 

West Valley has long been committed to providing greater access to food, through the Office of Student Needs, which offers students meal vouchers and free snacks, and the Roots Food Pantry, founded in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank. On March 18th, 2025, West Valley took its commitment to providing a step further, when the Board of Trustees approved the implementation of a universal meal program.

Starting in Fall 2025, both West Valley and Mission College will provide at least one free meal to registered students during the school day. 

With this measure, the West Valley - Mission College District is the first in the nation to implement a universal meal program. This historic measure is a watershed moment — not just for students at West Valley and Mission, but for students everywhere. West Valley - Mission’s inspiring step forward sets the tone for postsecondary institutions across the nation to reevaluate their dining options and increase access to nutritious food for their students. 

Along with the passing of this measure, the District’s dining services will also now be provided by a new dining services company, Thomas Cuisine. 

This decision was not made lightly, with District officials conducting a long and exhaustive search to find a provider that best suited the needs of students at both West Valley and Mission College. Thomas Cuisine is dedicated to providing convenient and high quality options for all of our students. 

This measure is also significant in that it bridges gaps in support between postsecondary and secondary education. While many students’ rely on California’s K-12 universal meal program, these students no longer receive this support as they continue their educational journey.

Thus, the District’s new program effectively bridges this gap, and allows students experiencing food insecurity to continue receiving this support and continue their education with this barrier removed. 

From its free tuition bill to this universal meal program, the West Valley - Mission District is one that is committed to removing barriers and providing a world-class, accessible education to all. Though the current federal administration has created significant doubt and fear for our students, these programs not only protect our students, but also bring hope and empowerment during these uncertain times. 

[1] Fast Facts - Community College Association. 

[2] UCLA Article