Glancing around, one might wonder how such a simple name holds so much purpose. La Table de Cana is more than just a catering service. It is a beacon of hope for those seeking a fresh start.
La Table de Cana is a network of catering businesses. These businesses operate across France. They focus on social and professional integration. La Table de Cana helps people distanced from employment. It offers them a path back into the workforce.
In 1985, Franck Chaigneau had an idea. He was a Jesuit priest and IT professional. He began distributing meals to homeless people in Antony. He wanted to help them find simple yet rewarding work. So, he created La Table de Cana. This volunteer association trains people in the restaurant business.
The name La Table de Cana comes from the biblical Wedding at Cana. This symbolizes the joyous aspect of sharing meals. La Table de Cana started as an association in Antony. In 1987, it became a limited liability company. By 1990, it gained status as an integration enterprise. La Table de Cana organizes cocktails and buffets for various organizations. These include public and private entities.
La Table de Cana expanded in 1997 with the plan “Table de Cana 2000.” The number of locations fluctuated. Yet, the network has persisted.
In 2015, the association’s headquarters moved to Paris. Its role became focused on network cohesion and development in France.
La Table de Cana operates as a network of integration companies. They specialize in catering. Each local integration company partners with an association. The company handles the economic activity. The association supports the individual’s integration. They address personal, social, and administrative issues.
Member companies are independent. The various La Table de Cana entities unite in a national association. This association coordinates efforts.
La Table de Cana aims for professional integration. It also focuses on social and environmental impact. Network companies sign a charter. This charter outlines values and commitments. They use fresh produce. They prioritize local and organic producers.
La Table de Cana recruits individuals facing employment difficulties. They provide practical training. This helps them find their place in the economic world. The vision is to believe in people’s talents. They focus on their ability to progress. They see the company as a key place for integration.
La Table de Cana prioritizes local and seasonal products. They minimize and recycle waste. This reflects their environmental commitment.
The primary activity of La Table de Cana is catering. They organize buffets and cocktails. Quality is a key aspect. Each company must have experienced chefs. Besides catering, some sites offer other services. These include classic dining and artisan chocolate.
La Table de Cana aims to have two-thirds of their staff in integration roles. One-third are supervisors. Each person in integration can stay up to two years. They rediscover the path to employment. They receive support outside work. This addresses administrative or housing problems. It can also help with health or family issues.
Each location tracks the progress of its former employees. Reintegration is considered successful. This is if the person is employed two years after leaving La Table de Cana.
In 2019, La Table de Cana employed 362 people. 271 were in integration roles. The average ratio was one permanent employee for every two in integration. 65% of those leaving found employment or training. The combined turnover of the network companies was 11.1 million euros.
La Table de Cana is not just a caterer. It is a symbol of hope. It embodies the belief in people. It shows the power of food to bring joy and opportunity.