Construction has begun on the Master's Table building at Seventh and Fenwick streets, but community support is still being sought.

"We have not raised all the money we need yet. We need about $34,000 more to reach our goal," said Michael Firmin, the executive director of Golden Harvest Food Bank. "That doesn't include the cost of the tables, chairs and the fence that we need to put around the property. So, we actually need more than just the $34,000."

The nonprofit organization broke ground at the soup kitchen last month and hopes to dedicate it in May.

The dining room will seat 152 people. The current dining room seats only 45. On average, more than 400 people are served daily.

The additional space will let the workers talk with and counsel those the Master's Table serves, something they aren't able to do now, Mr. Firmin said.

"It's impossible to do anything but move them through like cattle," he said.

The building will include an enclosed courtyard.

"The courtyard will have a covered walkway all the way around so that our guests will have a safe and sheltered, off-street place to wait for their meal," Mr. Firmin said.

To get information or donate for the building, visit www.goldenharvest.org or call (706) 736-1199.

Reach Nikasha Dicks at (706) 823-3336 or nikasha.dicks@augustachronicle.com.