White Sulphur restaurants step up to feed the hungry

By Stephen Baldwin, RealWV

“We love feeding people,” begins Erin Lovell, a chef in White Sulphur Springs. “We’ve got the resources to feed the hungry, so we just figured why not?”

That’s how Erin and her daughter, Sophie Bowes, began an effort last week at their restaurant, The Lunch Box, which has spread across the town to other eateries including Max on Main and Mill Creek Homestyle Bakery. 

Called the “LB Bag,” it’s a free bagged lunch given to anyone who asks for it. No qualifications or paperwork necessary. 

“We just want to feed hungry people,” adds Sophie. “There’s never any need for someone to be hungry in our town.” 

Noting the wealth disparity in White Sulphur, Erin said that she has customers who drive Bentleys and neighborhood children “who really struggle.” That contrast sprung her into action as Supplemental Nutritional Assistance (SNAP) lapsed last week, threatening low-income families who subsist with food insecurity. 

“We’ve had some seniors, some veterans, and some kids come by so far,” Erin says. 

The “LB Bag” includes different items each day depending on what is available. It might include a sandwich, chips, fruit, cheese sticks, a drink, and more. 

“We’re trying to be as discreet as possible,” says Erin, “and put as much as possible into that lunch.” 

Erin and Sophie are already thinking long-term about how to continue this effort, as they don’t believe the hunger needs of the community will be solved anytime soon. By working together with others, though, they are hopeful they can make a difference. 

“Nobody should be without food here,” Erin says.

The Lunch Box is located at 114 Caldwell Drive in downtown White Sulphur. 

Max on Main & Mill Creek step up

Several of Erin’s fellow business owners in White Sulphur agree, including Max on Main and Mill Creek Homestyle Bakery. 

Max on Main is offering free meals on November 4 (grilled cheese, tomato soup, & water) and November 5 (spaghetti marinara, salad, & water) in conjunction with Creekside Church. Meals may be picked up from 5-7pm at the church, 155 Willow Street. 

Mill Creek is offering a free “house special” to anyone in need of a hot meal this week. They also have a “pay it forward” board where customers can purchase an item, such as a loaf of bread, and anyone else can walk in and redeem that item at no charge. The bakery is located at 200 Pocahontas Trail, Suite 4.