Hailey Waldo
reporter@greenepublishing.com
On March 28, the Earth Angels of Madison County organization brought residents together for a meaningful day of connection, food and service during its first quarterly “Community Table” event at Four Freedoms Park in Madison.
Designed to foster unity through shared meals and local partnerships, the event welcomes families, volunteers and community leaders for a farm-to-table experience rooted in dignity and togetherness. Preparations began early in the morning, with wellness vendors opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a full meal service at 1 p.m.
Attendees were served a thoughtfully prepared four-course meal, featuring locally sourced ingredients. The menu included vegetable soup with sourdough bread, pork chops with mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables, a fresh salad with homemade croutons and dressing and strawberry shortcake parfaits to finish. Volunteers were also served freshly grilled hot dogs and sausages. Even people wandering by stopped for a meal, with the scent of fresh made food filling the park.
According to Earth Angels Founder, Marlies Jones, the event exceeded expectations in both turnout and impact. “People in the community coming together for a farm-to- table meal was our goal, and they truly showed up.” Ingredients were donated by local businesses and farms, highlighting the events mission to support the farm-to-table movement while strengthening community ties.
Key contributors included Deep Roots Meats LLC and Kneady and Sweet bread. Special recognition was given to Ruby Lamoureux, whose leadership helped bring the event to life.
Community leaders from the Town of Greenville, including Ryan Kornegay and Virginia Kingston Bruton, attended and joined residents at the table, reinforcing the event’s spirit of unity. Students from James Madison Preparatory High School’s (JMPHS) National Honor Society, including Hailey Waldo and Jacob Saltares, contributed by donating meal kits with non- perishable items to take home and help families in need prepare hearty meals. JMPHS Beta Club also attended and helped prepare and serve food during the event.
Event organizers extended gratitude to numerous donors, sponsors and volunteers, mentioning that the event would not have been possible without their collective effort. From food donations to logistical support, the day showcased what can be accomplished when the community comes together.
“This was a testament to our wonderful county,” organizers shared. “Amazing food, new friends and so much connection.”
With strong attendance and overwhelming support, Earth Angels confirmed that this was just the beginning, with more Community Table events