Video: ‘Empty Bowls’ Provides Great Lunch, Support For Salvation Army

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – At this lunch there was soup for every taste bud.

“I got lobster bisque and cajun bean and rice, ” said Carl Ethridge, of the Army National Guard.

“So far I’ve had Tupelo Country Club seafood gumbo, it’s absolutely great,” said Dr. Erik Goodwin.

Forty five restaurants, churches and civic groups were serving soup at the Tupelo Furniture Market. The Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary organizes the fundraiser. All money raised helps the only homeless shelter in the area feed the homeless and those who can’t quite make ends meet.

“You see a lot of people who are seniors, especially on fixed income, perhaps they are raising grand children, and with limited income they have to make choices and what they can spend it on and quite often food is the last thing that’s a priority,” said Maj. Jeff Daniel, of the Salvation Army.

Charles Cain knows first hand how the Salvation Army helps people. This time last year, he lived at the Red Shield Lodge. Now, he has his own place and he gives a lot of credit to the ministry.

“Personally I believe Salvation Army is the best, because you are not only helping that person but you are giving them a hand up, it’s not a hand out, so that’s always, a plus,” Cain said.

There was even an international section, with dishes from around the world for sale, all supporting the Salvation Army.

“This community is great and they do a lot to help others and we wanted to help as well because we love living here,” said Rashni Barath.

At the Outback Steakhouse booth, 5 year old Alyssa Simpson was helping her Dad, Walter, serve chicken tortilla soup.

How many bowls of soup do you think you’ve served?

“A lot,” Alyssa said.

As you leave the lunch, you get an empty bowl, it’s a reminder not only of this luncheon but also that some people in the area don’t know where their next meal is coming from.

Organizers hope to raise at least $50,000 from the Empty Bowls Luncheon.