Martha’s Table has been an institution in Kingston since 1997, providing a welcoming space where anyone in need can receive a nutritious meal, support, and a sense of belonging.
At this year’s 8th annual Diversity Dinner, hosted on May 10th by the Canadian Colours Kingston Foundation, the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area joined as an event partner and co-organizer to celebrate the theme of our community's "Resilience though Diversity". Being a free event, donations were encouraged from attendees in support of Martha's Table, to help address the ongoing food insecurity crisis across the Kingston region.
Martha’s Table has been an institution in Kingston since 1997, providing a welcoming space where anyone in need can receive a nutritious meal, support, and a sense of belonging. The organization operates as a community kitchen. They cook healthy meals for people who may not have a place to cook or call home.
On July 30, a cheque was presented to Ronda Candy, Executive Director of Martha's Table, to formally present the donations on behalf of the event attendees
“I’ve been involved with Martha’s Table for the past ten years because it’s a live kitchen; they cook healthy meals and give them directly to people in need,” shared Jimmy Hassan, founder of Canadian Colours Kingston Foundation. “Many of our neighbours have no place to cook or call home, and here they can find not just food, but dignity. It’s about helping those who need it most, right here in our city.”
"At the Community Foundation we connect donors with the causes and charities that matter most to them. It was our honour to collect these donations for Martha's Table", added Stacy Kelly, Executive Director of the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area", adding, "Our visit to see Martha's Table staff and volunteers in action was both moving and inspiring."
Ronda emphasized the ongoing need for support: “We need help every day to continue serving meals. Every contribution makes a direct difference to the people who rely on Martha’s Table,” she said. “It truly takes a community working together to ensure no one is left behind.”