Citizen Participation

There are many types of people that come to Table of Plenty, quite a few regulars and some newcomers. Every Thursday there is an old Italian couple that sits at the same table in the same spot; they never fail to come. Just last Thursday a man walked in very nervously. He told my group that he was embarrassed to be here but very lonely. Table of Plenty is not just for the poor or the hungry, but also for the lonely who want to be part of something, who want to belong. He shared his story with my friend about the bullying that goes on at work. My friend put his fears to rest when she assured him that there is no shame in coming to enjoy a meal with his community. There is no reason to eat alone every Thursday when we are here. Table of Plenty is not about serving people; it is about creating community and interacting with individuals that walk through the doors.  Citizen participation is important. There would be no Table of Plenty if not for the volunteers from the community. Many take it on as their job.