The Waterbury Times| Published June 1, 2026

WATERBURY — Summer starts with a meal, a conversation, and a reminder that community still matters.

Today, Southern Tree will host its Community Unity Meal at the CHD Hospitality Center, bringing together residents, local businesses, community organizations, and volunteers for a free meal open to everyone.

The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CHD Hospitality Center, 690 East Main Street, with meals available while supplies last.

While the food is expected to draw a crowd, organizers say the event is about much more than what is on the plate.

The goal is to create a space where neighbors can come together, build relationships, and strengthen the bonds that help communities thrive.

For many Waterbury residents, Southern Tree has become known for exactly that kind of work.

Over the years, the organization has quietly stepped up during some of the city’s toughest moments. Residents may recognize Southern Tree from its partnership with Marcus Stallworth and Stallworth Counseling, helping provide free macaroni and cheese meals to families on the Green.

Others may remember seeing Southern Tree in action during Waterbury’s water crisis, when community members, local organizations, and volunteers mobilized to get drinking water into the hands of residents who needed it. Southern Tree was among those efforts, working alongside community partners, including The Waterbury Times.

And if you’ve spent any time around community events in Waterbury, chances are you’ve met KC — one of the driving forces behind Southern Tree’s outreach efforts. Whether helping coordinate food distributions, supporting local events, or simply lending a hand where needed, KC has become a familiar face in community service efforts across the city.

Today’s Community Unity Meal continues that mission.

Local food vendors and supporters have joined together to provide meals, fellowship, and a welcoming environment for anyone who attends. No registration is required, and all are welcome.

In a city that often makes headlines for crime, politics, and controversy, events like the Community Unity Meal serve as a reminder that another story is being written every day in Waterbury — one of neighbors helping neighbors.

Today, that story is being told around the dinner table.

And everyone has a seat.

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The free event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CHD Hospitality Center, 690 East Main Street, and everyone is welcome while supplies last.

Residents can expect food from a lineup of local favorites, including Wild Bill’s BBQ, Russ D Wings, Soul Haven, Boomer Street Soul Food Restaurant, Island Rootz Jamaican Cuisine, The Wings Spot, and other community partners stepping up to serve Waterbury.

The event is being supported by a growing coalition of businesses, organizations, and community advocates, including Divine Health Juice Bar, local media partners, volunteers, and neighborhood supporters who believe that bringing people together can make a difference.

Today’s gathering is expected to bring together families, seniors, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, local entrepreneurs, and everyday residents looking to share a meal and connect with their neighbors.

In a time when divisions often dominate headlines, Southern Tree’s message is simple:

Food. Community. Unity. Purpose.

If you’re looking for something positive happening in Waterbury today, this is it.

See you at the table.