Grits, Waffles, & Community Coming Soon

Friends,

We did it. We made it a year. It’s because of you, of course. Your consistent support and unceasing love is the reason I am able to write you this note today. 

And it’s the reason we can start looking forward, toward what’s next. Because it’s gonna be good. And y’all? The excitement level over here is the real deal.

But before we talk about what’s next, I want us to sit for a second with the concrete, love-filled, extraordinary ways you’ve shown up for Table this year: 

  • March: You emailed, donated, and supported every decision we made.

  • April: You showed up for biscuits and drip coffee when we only had 5 items on the menu. 

  • June: You stepped up and gave generously so we could feed hundreds every day.

  • August: You supported us when we closed to build a bigger kitchen. 

  • October: You helped us reach our goal for our fall fundraiser. 

  • Now: You’re still here, eating with us, loving on us, and being part of our community. 

Thank you for continuing to believe in our Hargett Street cafe. Even during a pandemic. Even with fewer hours. Even without grits and bottomless coffee. You are simply the best community there is. 

NOW. Let’s talk about what’s next. 

I know with the new Governor’s rules, we could open at 100% capacity. Trust me, we can’t wait to do this. But we’ve decided to play the long game on reopening, and here’s why: dignity, inclusivity, and welcome are at the heart of what we do. Until we can safely throw our doors open wide to volunteers in the kitchen, tables filling the floors, and the warm atmosphere that makes Table what it is, we plan to move slowly and deliberately. Re-opening well and with equity in mind--it matters to our mission. It matters to our community. 

So here’s a rough timeline. We’ll keep you posted as it firms up: 

  • April 1: Our team gets our second vaccination doses (thanks NeighborHealth!)

  • April 2, 3, 4: Closed for the long weekend. Our team needs to rest (they have worked TIRELESSLY) and to recover from possible vaccine side effects.

  • April 7th: Return to our hours of 8am-2pm.

  • May: Reinstate Tuesday hours and welcome back a few volunteers. We cannot wait to have folks volunteering again.

  • Mid-May/Early-June: Outside tables. I’ve heard rumors of grit bowls and waffles on the menu….

  • Mid-June: Fingers crossed we’ll have tables inside as well. Whoohoo! 

I feel hopeful. And so, so excited for this next phase of Table. Here’s to eating grit bowls, drinking countless refills of coffee together, and seeing all of your beautiful faces. The time is coming when we can be together again, and we cannot wait. Thank you Table family. We love you.

Real hugs coming soon,

Maggie

Maggie Kane