HHSA to Partner with Winston’s Community Unity Project to Operate Café and Work Experience Program

NAPA, CA - The Napa County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Winston's Community Unity Project (Winston's CUP) to operate the café, located at HHSA, that will be supplemented by a work experience program for those experiencing barriers to employment, including those who have struggled with homelessness and substance abuse.

Winston's CUP will operate a retail food and beverage café, open to the public, and offering fresh and healthy meals for HHSA clients. Winston's CUP is expected to begin operations October 1, 2024, and will be located at 2751 Napa Valley Corporate Drive, Bldg. B., Napa, CA.

This new partnership includes a work experience program that introduces participants to the occupation of professional cooking and food services, preparing them for entry-level jobs within the industry. Participants will be able to earn a food handlers' certificate as part of the program and receive education and training on basic safety guidelines and technical skills required to work in a commercial kitchen, and customer service. Participants in the program will include those enrolled in HHSA's subsidized on-the-job training, expanded subsidized employment, and unpaid work experience (WEX) placements.

"Winston's Café and Bakery is renowned in Napa for their fresh, healthy, and delicious food offerings. Winston's CUP will carry forward this tradition with a focus on giving back to the community," said Jennifer Yasumoto, Director of Napa County Health and Human Services Agency. "This is truly a unique partnership that highlights the best of Napa-its high-quality culinary offerings and its steadfast commitment to support those most in need in our community. I am delighted at the opportunities and career pathways this partnership will create for our clients."

"My husband and I started Winston's Café and Bakery more than three years ago. We're passionate about great food. We're also passionate about our community. With a social work background, it's been my dream to bring this passion together to support those in need. Winston's CUP brings this dream to life," said Cassan Macaraig. "Winston's CUP is a new non-profit dedicated to reducing food inequities and supporting vulnerable populations across Napa Valley, fostering a community where everyone has access to nutritious food and opportunities for a healthier future. I could not be more thrilled to partner with Napa County Health and Human Services Agency and their unmatched commitment to our community."