View Edit

Thursday’s Table

  • A free meal, every Thursday, from 5 to 6 pm at the First Congregational United Church of Christ.
  • Everyone is welcomed to come in for a freshly prepared meal.
    • A menu is prepared every week by a professional chef.
    • A variety of foods are included from meats, vegetables, fruits, and deserts.
    • The majority of the food is fresh and prepared on-site by the chefs.

Photo from an article about First Congregational United Church of Christ in the Leader-Telegram.

Background Information

  • Started in 2006 by members of the congregation.
    • Inspired by the Biblical story of the Good Samaritan and a want to help the community.
    • The Church and community supported the initiative, allowing for the purchase of industrial kitchen appliances.
    • Followed the model of the pre-existing Tuesday’s Table, run by St. Joseph’s Catholic Church every Tuesday, 5 to 6 pm.
  • Thursday’s Table is a nonprofit organization.
    • Staffed by a pool of around 150 volunteers.
      • Members of the church are involved.
      • Also includes volunteers from around the community including civic groups, UW Stout students, and businesses.
      • Individuals, area churches, and community agencies supply the funding for Thursday’s Table.
      • Information about donations can be found here..
    • The Feed My People Food Bank is the main supplier of the food needed for the meals.
      • Feed My People allows for the purchase of food at a fraction of the normal cost.
      • Feed My People Food Bank is located in Eau Claire, WI and is connected with Second Harvest in Minneapolis, MN.
      • The food bank is the #1 agency that confronts food insecurity in the community.
      • In 2016, Thursday’s Table participated in Feed My People Food Bank’s Food for More Challenge.
        • Approximately $2800 was raised, translating to 2800 lbs of food credit at Feed My People.
  • Thursday’s Table provides a free meal to anyone who walks in the door.
    • Meals are served 50-52 weeks per year.
    • It is estimated that 35,000 meals have been served in the past 10 years with around 3,000 served in 2016 alone.
    • There are no questions and no qualifications to join the meal.
      • It is a time for food and socialization.
      • Everyone is welcome to the meal.
    • Thursday’s Table has a large older crowd and many regulars.
      • Anyone who may need the meal is encouraged to come including the elderly and families.
      • A major hurdle comes in spreading the word to those who could benefit from the meal.
      • Posters are often posted, but word-of-mouth advertisement continues to be an important factor.
Edit tags