On June 16, 2023, Kingston community food centre, Martha's Table, is hosting a special fundraiser at the Kingston Grand Theatre. Their event, Empty Boards, promises “an evening of charcuterie and amazing music,” and will feature a live performance by acclaimed local blues act, the Kim Pollard Band. Attendees will enjoy a selection of charcuterie from Wilton Cheese Factory, Findlay Foods and General Brock’s Commissary, served on individual boards they get to keep. The event will also include a silent auction of goods and experiential packages.

Funding the Fight Against Hunger in Kingston

Tickets are $75 each, and revenue from ticket sales will help Martha's Table address the growing issue of hunger in Kingston at their 629 Princess Street location. An official statement explained, “Due to the unprecedented increase in the need for our meals we simply don’t have space indoors to accommodate people; all dining spaces have been converted to food preparation.” Since 2020, the demands on Martha's Table have increased by 235%, and each ticket purchased will provide hot and nutritious meals for around 18 people. “This event was planned to help cover costs of our much-needed expansion… so people may visit Martha’s ‘indoors’ and we will be able to return to (serving) three meals per day,” explained Ronda Candy, Executive Director at Martha's Table. “People have lived through periods of isolation because of the pandemic and… it will be very rewarding for everyone at Martha’s to be able to offer more support.”

A Powerful Performance by a Powerhouse Act

Napanee's All Star Canadian Female Vocalist of the Year award-winner and soulful R&B act, Kim Pollard and her band, will be providing the soundtrack for the evening, which runs from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. The Kim Pollard Band has been a featured act at RBC Ottawa Bluesfest and Limestone City Blues Fest in Kingston, and has opened for renowned artists such as Robert Cray and Buddy Guy. “The band was a good match for Martha’s Table because the music is positive, and I always felt inspired after seeing (their) performance,” added Candy. ”Kim’s voice is powerful; people that attend will be drawn in and caught up in her story through music.” More information about the Empty Boards event and links to purchase advance tickets online can be found here. Posted: May 3, 2023 Originally Published: Apr 28, 2023