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A meal.
A conversation.
A movement to end hunger.

Join us at the Longest Table.

SIGN UP NOW

The Greater Chicago Food Depository envisions a future where every person in every neighborhood has reliable, dignified access to three meals a day. No matter their zip code, income, or circumstance. That’s the goal.​

Join us at the Longest Table for a free meal and real-life conversation about how we reach this goal together. The Longest Table is set across city streets, public spaces, and communities. Everyone is welcome at this meal. All ages. No charge.

We're not waiting for change. We're delivering it. Block by block. Plate by plate.

West Side: Sept 19, noon – 2:00 p.m.
South Side: Sept 30, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

(Location details will be announced closer to the date.)

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Join us at the Longest Table

Signing up is not required, but it will help us with planning. You can also sign up to volunteer or serve as a Table Captain to help host and lead conversations. Feel free to reach out at [email protected] with any questions.

 

The Longest Table is a free, community event that brings people together for a shared meal and conversation. It's a simple way to create moments of joy and build stronger neighborhoods.

Tables are set in public spaces, often taking up blocks or parks to create a visible presence in the community.

Longest Table events take place all over the country. These Chicago-based tables are presented by the Greater Chicago Food Depository with the goal of engaging our community around our mission to end hunger.

We are hosting two events in September. One is on the West Side on September 19 from noon to 2 p.m. The other is on the South Side on September 30 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

We will announce the exact location in those areas closer to the date. If you sign up, you'll receive an email with details.

Everyone is welcome.

There is no fee to attend and enjoy a meal during this event.

This is not a ticketed event. We encourage you to sign up above so we can plan for a certain number of attendees, but feel free to come at the last minute...and bring friends!

No, all of this will be provided at no charge.

If you have a specific food allergy or preference, please plan accordingly.

Yes, we will provide vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free food options on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have a specific allergy, please plan accordingly.

Yes! Children of all ages are welcome.

Please do not bring animals to the Longest Table unless they are service animals.

This event is not licensed for alcohol and it will not be served. Please do not bring alcohol or open containers of liquor to the Longest Table.

Table Captains help create a warm, welcoming, and engaging experience for guests. They organize or host a table of approximately 8–10 people, inviting friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues when possible. Table Captains also help facilitate introductions, encourage conversation and connection, and ensure everyone at their table feels included and valued. Those who do not have a group to invite are welcome to serve as Table Captains by hosting guests who attend on their own.

Volunteers play an important role in helping make the event welcoming, organized, and successful. Volunteer opportunities include assisting with event setup, greeting guests as they arrive, helping attendees find their place, supporting activities during the event, and assisting with cleanup and breakdown afterward.

Baby spinach leaves with water droplets.

You Belong to Our Community

Whether you need help finding food today or are ready to lend help to someone else, we’re here to connect, help, and inspire.

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