In 2015, the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation's Social Capital CAB, turned its focus solidly to the issue of food security here in our Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula community. Since then, more than 117 tons of food has been raised and distributed to area organizations, such as Gig Harbor/Peninsula FISH Foodbank, Food Backpacks 4Kids, Key Peninsula and Bischoff Food Banks, Thanksgiving Basket Brigade a
nd more. Hearing the needs of our community organizations working on the front-lines to help meet the nutritional needs of families in need across our two peninsulas, THE COMMUNITY TABLE was born. Launching May 6, 2023, THE COMMUNITY TABLE is a very special dinner for 100 guests, who will dine under the stars in the courtyard at Uptown Gig Harbor Pavilion on an amazing fresh, locally sourced meal, prepared by LeGarmache who will be provided with key ingredients – gleaned from area farms – and transform them into a unique epicurean experience bringing awareness to hunger in our community, the core of the evening’s benefit. Funds raised through THE COMMUNITY TABLE will support the establishment of an endowed community fund that will provide key financial resources and build support for programs that improve, promote and maximize opportunity for special populations and healthy communities. An average of 30% of youth enrolled in our Peninsula schools come from families who meet federal criteria for free or reduced lunch programs. For many, these are the only meals they receive with any regularity. About 2,300 children (1 in 4) and 1 in 7 adults, primarily seniors, across our community struggle with hunger. Every dollar raised through The Community Table dinner equals about 5 pounds of food. Our goal is to raise enough funding to help stock the shelves of our local food banks for nearly 6 months – especially those months when need is at its greatest (June through October).
