KINGSPORT, Tenn., (WJHL) - The Table of Kingsport opened in July of 2024, first running out of one room with four tables.

Founder and pastor Melissa Malcolm said the non-profit started through the Dinner Church movement as a way to unite the community through church teachings and a hot meal.

"Jesus believed if you wanted to get to know somebody, you broke bread with them around the table," Malcolm said. "It's the best way for us to get to know and trust people. We knew that there was a need for community, and we knew there was a need for food in this neighborhood."

The Table of Kingsport later moved to The Corner church on Gibson Mill Road.

Malcolm said The Table's mission is to provide a safe place for the community where everyone is accepted and valued.

"Most of the people who come

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