Help us keep the table open: OTN launches emergency appeal
THE OPEN TABLE NETWORK (OTN) has launched an urgent Crowdfunder to raise £16,000 after the charity was unable to secure new funding to replace a three-year national church grant that came to an end in March.
The appeal aims to safeguard the national support network for nearly 40 Open Table communities serving LGBTQIA+ people across England and Wales.
While local Open Table communities continue to flourish, the national charity that supports them is now facing its greatest challenge.
For 18 years, since June 2008, Open Table has been creating safe, affirming communities where LGBTQIA+ people can find welcome, belonging, and hope. Our recently published Annual Report highlights the impact Open Table communities have.
Despite strong applications to funders that have previously supported the charity, OTN has recently been unsuccessful in securing new funding. The funding environment has become increasingly competitive, particularly for organisations working with LGBTQIA+ communities.
If the appeal is unsuccessful, the national charity will be forced to close as soon as September.
Why the national network matters
Open Table communities are led by dedicated local volunteers who will continue to meet. However, without the national charity there would no longer be a team to support communities, help them navigate leadership changes, provide safeguarding guidance, share resources, train new leaders, or help new Open Table communities become established.
The closure of the national network would also mean that churches wanting to start new Open Table communities would no longer have the support needed to do so.
An act of solidarity
The charity has launched a Crowdfunder with a target of £16,000, which would provide the breathing space needed while longer-term funding is secured.
OTN’s Director Kieran Bohan said:
‘Open Table exists because no one should have to choose between their faith and who they are. Every month, hundreds of people find welcome, belonging and hope through our communities.
‘This appeal is about protecting the network of communities that continues to transform lives, and ensuring that LGBTQIA+ people of faith know there is still a place where they are more than welcome.
‘We know these are challenging times for many people, and many charities. If you're able to donate, we'd be incredibly grateful. If not, please consider sharing our appeal and keeping Open Table in your prayers.’
How you can help:
Donate to the Crowdfunder.
Share the appeal with friends, churches and community groups.
Pray for Open Table Network, its communities and everyone involved in the appeal.
Become a Friend of Open Table by setting up a regular monthly donation. READ MORE.
Every donation, every prayer and every share will help bring Open Table closer to securing the future of the national network and the welcome its communities provide.
