The Table Soup Kitchen Foundation is looking to reapply for $1.2 million in funding from the District of Muskoka after its previous request was denied.
The Foundation submitted a funding request on Nov. 20, 2025. It has been under the District’s consideration since then.
During a June 17 Community and Planning Services Committee meeting, Council denied the request, stating it was not sufficiently advanced for staff to make a recommendation to District Council.
“We will continue to fight for those experiencing homelessness and pursue whatever avenues we can to support them in their greatest time of need. This isn’t over,” said Heather Cassie, founder and executive director, in a social media post.
Cassie said the funding request was intended for The Table Plaza renovations, staffing, and operations, which would advance their community initiative.
“We have an incredible space ready to be converted into exactly what our community so desperately needs. Our new facility is surrounded by a supportive network of other Table ministries in order to provide wraparound services for each guest that would come to us for emergency shelter,” she said.
According to Cassie, they will reapply for the funding under the new Grants Policy and Community Grants Program, with a new application and partnerships for 2027 funding.
Cassie said, in the meantime, they will continue their fundraising efforts.
The District said staff will continue to maintain dialogue, share resources, and, where possible, provide support to strengthen The Table’s business case for any future funding request.
