From Empty Kitchen to “Combat Kitchen”: How State Use Brought Food Service to State Military Headquarters.

When the State Military Headquarters in Rancho Cordova opened its brand-new facility — Bear Hollow — there was one major challenge: the troops and employees needed an on-site food service provider, and they needed one fast.

With no time to go through the lengthy competitive bid process, the State Military turned to the State Use Program for a faster, more flexible solution.

The Partnership

Through California’s State Use Program, and with expert guidance from Signature Business Consulting, the State Military Headquarters partnered with Lincoln Training Center, a Community Rehabilitation Program known for delivering high-quality services and creating jobs for people with disabilities.

Signature navigated the lease and contracting process, identified Lincoln Training Center as the right fit, and helped launch what would become Combat Kitchen — Bear Hollow’s brand-new food service operation.

Head Chef Dana and the Lincoln Training Center team quickly transformed an empty space into a functioning kitchen and café, solving challenges that other vendors couldn’t and bringing high-quality, affordable meals to the building.

The Impact

For the State Military Headquarters:

• A reliable, sustainable food service provider in the heart of their new facility.

• Fresh, quality meals served daily to troops and employees.

• A streamlined procurement process with no delays.

For the Lincoln Training Center team:

• Two individuals with disabilities employed in meaningful, long-term positions.

• New culinary and customer service skills that build confidence and future career opportunities.

• A sense of pride in serving those who serve our state.

Why It Matters for Agencies The State Use Program makes it possible to meet urgent operational needs without the delays of traditional procurement — all while creating life-changing employment opportunities. With Signature guiding the process, agencies get exactly what they need, when they need it, and make a measurable impact in their communities.