At Martha’s Table, our mission is to support strong children, strong families, and strong communities.
Since 1980, Martha’s Table has been a symbol of dignity, equity, and opportunity in Washington, DC. What began with a sandwich and a safe space for youth after school on 14th Street NW has grown into a powerful, community-centered organization serving over 45,000 neighbors each year through high-quality education, healthy food and wellness initiatives, family support, and investments that spark opportunity and strengthen community. To further our impact, we relocated our headquarters in 2019 to the heart of Ward 8, ensuring we remain deeply connected to the neighborhoods we serve.
Our work is guided by the wisdom and leadership of our neighbors and rooted in the belief that strong communities are built by investing in people. We are committed to walking alongside our neighbors, creating opportunities, and strengthening the foundations that allow children and families to succeed.
In 2020, we launched a new phase of impact by deepening our engagement with the community. We convened a panel of respected Southeast DC leaders to shape an intentional strategy, resulting in over 1,000 meaningful conversations with residents. Speaking in multiple languages—including Spanish and Amharic—neighbors of all ages and backgrounds shared their priorities, aspirations, and the role they trust Martha’s Table to play in advancing their vision for a stronger DC.
Today, we put this vision into action by focusing on four key areas. We provide nationally accredited early childhood education that sets children on a path to success. We partner with families to build strong foundations and lasting support networks. We ensure access to healthy food and essential services, equipping neighbors with the resources to thrive. We also invest directly in communities, fostering economic opportunities and amplifying local leadership.
By working alongside our neighbors, we continue to build a future in which every Washingtonian has the opportunity to not only stay in their community but thrive in it.
At Martha’s Table, we know emotional wellness is rooted in connection, dignity, and care. From creative expression to gatherings, counseling referrals, and employee wellness efforts, we remain committed to supporting the whole person and strengthening the well-being of our neighbors and team members alike. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we celebrate the many ways healing can look and the power of community in helping us all thrive.
Fathers in DC are showing up every day and on June 13, Martha’s Table is creating space to celebrate that and build on it. The Fatherhood Summit: Reshaping the Narrative of Our Fathers is a no-cost, full-day gathering for dads, father figures, and male caregivers.
This May, see what’s possible when neighbors lift each other up. Join us at Martha’s Outfitters and be part of a community where everyone’s strengths and contributions matter. Volunteer with us and help make a lasting impact, together.
In 2020, we launched a new phase of impact by deepening our engagement with the community. We convened a panel of respected Southeast DC leaders to shape an intentional strategy, resulting in over 1,000 meaningful conversations with residents. Speaking in multiple languages—including Spanish and Amharic—neighbors of all ages and backgrounds shared their priorities, aspirations, and the role they trust Martha’s Table to play in advancing their vision for a stronger DC.
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