When a storm rolls through the Bay Area, most people think about flashlights, phone chargers, and a warm meal. For thousands of homebound seniors, that last part isn’t guaranteed. A power outage can mean spoiled food, missed deliveries, and long hours of isolation. That’s why Meals on Wheels San Francisco (MOWSF) has taken a decisive step toward safeguarding its mission: installing a new 400 kW backup generator at The Sangiacomo Flynn Building.
This infrastructure upgrade isn’t just a technical improvement. It’s a promise to seniors across the region that they won’t be forgotten when disaster strikes.
A Storm-Ready Safety Net
The new generator ensures uninterrupted meal production and delivery even during widespread power failures or natural disasters. With a 1,100-gallon belly tank and enough power to run the facility for three days at full capacity, it keeps everything from the kitchen line to cold storage humming.
When wildfires or rolling blackouts disrupt daily life, MOWSF’s kitchen can continue producing more than 2.6 million meals a year. Deliveries reach older adults who rely on those meals not just for nutrition, but for connection. This is more than a backup plan. It’s an unbreakable chain of care.
Civic Leaders and Community Backers
The recent ribbon cutting at the Sangiacomo Flynn Building underscored how much the community stands behind this mission. Speakers included MOWSF CEO Jennifer Steele, Scott Wiener, and Don Libbey of Plant Construction Company, L.P..
“This new generator represents our unwavering commitment to the seniors who depend on us,” Steele said. “It ensures that even in the face of power outages or emergencies, our kitchen will continue to operate, our staff can stay on-site safely, and our clients will continue to receive nutritious meals and essential care.”
That shared commitment was also reflected in the diverse roster of funders and supporters:
- California Department of Aging
- Senator Scott Wiener
- Sutter Health Community Health
- William G. Irwin Foundation
- Bothin Foundation
- San Mateo County
- Amazon
- Plant Construction Company, L.P. / Don Libbey
More Than Meals
Founded in 1970, Meals on Wheels San Francisco delivers two home-cooked meals daily to seniors across San Francisco and Northern San Mateo Counties. It also provides nutrition counseling, wellness programs, and social work that help reduce isolation and support aging with dignity.
In moments of crisis, these services become even more essential. A functioning kitchen means uninterrupted care. A warm meal delivered on time means safety and stability. And a prepared organization means fewer seniors face emergencies alone.
Investing in Resilience
Climate events are growing more frequent and severe. Aging infrastructure leaves many vulnerable populations at greater risk. The Sangiacomo Flynn Building’s new generator represents a strategic investment in resilience. It ensures that when the power grid goes down, the safety net for seniors doesn’t.
MOWSF has long been a trusted lifeline. This upgrade cements its role as an essential emergency responder for one of the most vulnerable groups in the Bay Area.
How to Support the Mission
This work relies on a network of supporters: donors, foundations, government partners, and volunteers. To contribute or learn more about how Meals on Wheels San Francisco serves older adults with dignity and care, visit www.mowsf.org.
When the lights go out, their work shines even brighter.
