Meet Matt
I love San Francisco. With its rich history, it has always been a beacon of hope. From the days of the Gold Rush to our modern, constantly-changing city, through its ups and downs, I love it all. It’s the reason why it will always be the capital of innovation and a world class tourist destination.
Yet for me, San Francisco is more than just a name on a map; it's home. My connection to this city began in 1912 when my great-grandparents left Liguria, Italy, making their new life in North Beach. My grandpa's side delved into the flower business, while on my grandmother's side, her father was a founding member of the Scavenger Protective Association, the predecessor of the city’s sanitation workers.
Angelo, my grandfather and a World War II veteran, was a man determined to make a life in the city he loved. He worked tirelessly during night shifts at a janitorial firm, saving every penny. His savings became the cornerstone for buying a small window washing venture. With dedication, he expanded it into Able Services, which was among the city's top union employers.
As a kid, I often observed my father, Mike, nurturing his own janitorial business. Upon completing high school, I entered the workforce and found my place at Embarcadero Center #2 as a utility engineer. Here, I had the honor of helping set up the renowned Christmas lights.
A quest for knowledge led me to St. Mary's of California, where I immersed myself in philosophy and also wore the rugby jersey with pride, being part of the 2014 Collegiate National Champion team.
Through college, my determination never wavered. Balancing jobs, studies, and giving back to the community, serving as a Peer Health Exchange Volunteer, promoting drug and alcohol awareness in schools, including Mission High.
Every role I've taken on has deepened my appreciation for society's unsung heroes: janitors, stationary engineers, and those in waste management.
Post-graduation, I returned to San Francisco's embrace and began my tenure in our family business. However, the itch to carve my own niche led to the birth of Matilda's Bloombox with my wife, Emily, in 2016. From our beginnings in a basement, we've grown into a team of twelve, sending joy through flowers from our Bayview warehouse throughout California.
Life's joys amplified in March 2017 when Emily and I exchanged vows. Today, we experience the magic of parenthood with our trio: Matilda, Humphrey, and Daphne. Our family strengthens our ties to San Francisco, with dreams of a thriving future for the coming generations.
Representing the Board of Supervisors, I pledge to be the voice for every West Side resident, whether you've been here for days or decades. Knowing this community's pulse, I am committed to ensuring a bright future rooted in our rich past. Hand in hand, let's address today's challenges to craft a San Francisco that remains vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous for our children and theirs.
