Like all friends, the Friends of Grace nonprofit smooths out the rough edges of life.

The San Jose group accomplishes this through a combination of classes, community and hot, healthy meals — a program known as Grace Art & Wellness that’s held six days a week at the city-owned Northside Community Center.

“Breakfast and lunch aren’t just meals — they’re a point of entry into healing and connection,” said Shawna Scarpitti, president of the nonprofit. She noted that more than 12,000 meals were served in 2024 to hundreds of people who have found or were referred to Friends of Grace.

Many members have developmental disabilities or are experiencing mental health challenges. For others, they’re coping with the loss of a job, housing or family — or the loneliness and isolation that can come wit

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