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.
NewsApril 11, 2026 at 8:00 AM
At Martha’s Table, the earliest years of learning are filled with curiosity, care, and connection. This Week of the Young Child, see how our nationally accredited program supports strong children and strong families
April 10, 2026 at 9:58 AM
“My end goal is to be an entrepreneur,” shared Nakia B., who knew she wanted to own her own business, but not what kind—until she found the Virtual Reality Auto Tech Training Program at Martha’s Table. Learn how this innovative program is helping her build the hands-on skills and confidence needed to launch her own automotive shop.
March 31, 2026 at 1:03 PM
Women from across the community gathered at The Commons for Martha’s Table’s Women’s Health Summit, a day of honest conversations about the life cycle of women from menstruation to post-menopause, mental health, nutrition, and advocating for better healthcare. Learn how this gathering created space for women in Ward 8 to share knowledge, resources, and support across generations.
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