The Town of Huntsville is partnering with the Table Soup Kitchen Foundation and will advocate on their behalf to different levels of government.
During an October 29 committee meeting, Heather Cassie, the executive director and founder of the food bank, presented a report detailing their new location and their expansion plans to address the needs of the growing community.
“There’s an increased demand for affordable housing, our food bank access, and emergency support. Our facilities are definitely at full capacity, and our men’s hostel wait list continues to grow,” said Cassie.
Cassie said their future plans involve seeking a partnership and financial support from the Town to create an emergency shelter, transitional housing, social housing, and affordable rental units.
They also requested that the Town advocate for and secure provincial and federal funding to support local affordable housing projects that serve people with diverse needs and incomes.
She said their future plans align with the Town’s desire to collaborate with non-profit builders and government agencies to develop housing solutions and contribute to economic development and balanced growth.
“Together we will build hope, a legacy of compassion and community leadership, addressing housing, food and belonging together. Everyone deserves a seat at the table,” said Cassie.
Brian Rasmussen, president of the foundation’s board, said with the expansion of Table Plaza and the Town’s support, they will be better equipped to address the growing needs of the community.
“A success story for the table would not be having the same people coming over and over again. We want to get people back, reintegrated in the community, working back on their feet, being able to support themselves,” he said. “We are feasibly able to address this need in the right location. We have the facility, we have the opportunity. This will be a sustainable project. We just need help getting there, and that’s our ask.”
As a result, council agreed to partner with the Table Soup Kitchen Foundation and help them achieve their goals to have a greater impact in the community.
“This is great because I know all about the proposal, and I can already start to advocate on your behalf to have you do a presentation…at district council,” said Huntsville Mayor Nancy Alcock.
