In the fall of 2005, several of us conducted a survey of homeless people to learn about the availability of food on the weekend.  Many of them told us that they were eating out of the garbage or missing meals because soup kitchens that are open on weekdays are closed.  We decided to do something to help. A small group of caring people held a meeting to discuss how to best address this issue.  They had a vision for "The Table — Always Room For One More," based on the idea of creating an atmosphere similar to a family dinner where food is prepared and served with loving hands and hearts. The Firehouse Shelter agreed to let us use their kitchen to serve the meals and provided the cups, plates, utensils, etc.  We began serving the first week in December.  Volunteers came from across of the city with trays of home-cooked food.  After the blessing, plates were prepared and served to guests as they seated.  Several of the volunteers sat down to share a meal with the guests.  After delicious desserts, everyone left with a full stomach.  There were many smiles and thank-you's. Something special was happening there.  There is something very healing about sharing home-cooked food in a warm and caring environment.  Susan Swartz, who works with The RUSH Initiative for Temple Emanuel, said "This was the most pleasant experience we have had working on meals for the homeless."  Today, the word is spreading on the street and the number of guests is growing. If you believe in this vision and want to help, we ask you to pick one or two dates during the next three months when you can help to cook and prepare food.  If you represent a group that can self-organize and handle an entire meal, just let us know what date you want to reserve.  If you are an individual or a couple and want us to group you with others, we can gladly do so.  If you are a struggling student and don't have the money to buy food but still want to help, let us know and we will help make that happen.  We are very committed to involving people under the age of 30 in The Table.  We have already seen how participation in The Table has transformed several students who have not had this type of opportunity in the past. Finally, we want to share the words of a formerly homeless woman about her experience on the street.  She said, "I could always scrape up enough money to buy a pack of crackers or some other food.  But what I was most hungry for was hope."  Thank you for everything you have done, and that you will do, to give homeless and hungry people food — and hope." © 2006 The Table