Save Mart funds cooking kits for former foster youth in Yolo County

The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation is providing food-preparation items for 50 local youth moving out of foster care, homelessness, or the juvenile justice system through a $5,000 grant to the nonprofit Make It Happen for Yolo County.

The nonprofit provides under-resourced youth moving out on their own with furniture, appliances and household items needed to fully furnish a small apartment. Each cooking kit includes bakeware, mixing bowls, pots and pans, cooking utensils and kitchen knives.

“Kitchen supplies are the most frequently requested items among our clients, so we are especially grateful to Save Mart for recognizing this important need,” said Cathi Schmidt, executive director, Make It Happen for Yolo County. “Our cooking kits address a practical gap that has real health and financial implications. By providing the tools to cook at home, we can help youth save money, eat more nutritiously and develop essential skills for independence.”

Make It Happen for Yolo County equips local transition-age youth ages 16–24 with essential furnishings and household goods to create safe, stable homes as they move into independent living, as well as bicycles for transportation.

Serving young people emerging from foster care, the juvenile justice system or homelessness, the nonprofit provides items that turn an apartment into a place of comfort, dignity and belonging. Clients are referred through county agencies and community partners and receive personalized support along with connections to partner organizations and ongoing advocacy.

Since its founding in 2014, Make It Happen for Yolo County has helped nearly 400 transition-age youth and is the only organization in Yolo County offering these services. To make a financial or furniture donation, visit: www.MIHYolo.org.

The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation focuses on building stronger communities through access to fresh foods and programs that support youth and help them thrive. For more information, visit: www.TheSaveMartCompanies.com/Community.

Article written by Taylor Heeden; Published June 12, 2026 by the Daily Democrat