Current Big Table Locations
caring for those most in need
Hidden behind the smiles of those working in the restaurants and hotels is the highest concentration of need in the nation. Our industry is full of amazing and gifted people and hires people no other industry will. These hard-working people have significantly increased risk for financial and emotional crisis as compared to other industries. In fact, EVERY one of the ten lowest-paid jobs in the country is in our industry based on 2020 statistics. Yet because hospitality workers are naturally required to keep smiles on their faces, their needs are virtually invisible to the world. Their job is to serve and take care of others – Big Table’s mission is to walk alongside and help take care of them when they need it most.
1 in 6
restaurant workers are below the official poverty line – DOUBLE any other working population
43%
make less than economists say is needed just to make ends meet
hope is always on the menu
Big Table was born out of a need. A server who couldn't afford medical care. A hotel housekeeper who was on the verge of eviction. A busboy who needed a car repair so he could make his shift. Every story is different. But the pain is the same - hardworking people just struggling to get by. Thanks to our selfless donors and our network of generous partners, including doctors, dentists, therapists, auto mechanics, and lawyers, we are able to meet each of these people at their exact moment of need with exactly the help they need.
We are able to catch them before they fall, building intentional relationships, and offering direction and hope. Won't you join us?
CHOOSING STRENGTH EACH DAY
Big Table helped me when I had nowhere to turn. When I thought I had no one else, they were there
Sean is a talented line cook at a popular local restaurant and has even been named “employee of the year” for his hard work recently. After a season of hard-fought sober living, one drink on a hot summer day dove him back into the deep end of old habits. He retreated from the world as waves of regret overcame him and so the restaurant owner referred him to Big Table. After Sean started recovering, Big Table set him up in a hotel to continue to sober up safely, bringing him nourishing food to help his body heal. Sean couldn’t believe we were helping him. Thankfully, a former co-worker offered Sean a permanent place to live shortly after – with an incredible ocean view as a tangible reminder of the hope that lies ahead. Big Table helped shop for necessities for his new place, covered some phone bills, and most importantly continues to encourage Sean as he finds new strength each day to choose sobriety and embrace faith in his future.
how it works
our mission
Big Table exists to see the lives of those working in the restaurant and hospitality industry transformed by building community and caring for those who are in crisis, transition, or falling through the cracks.