SPRUCE HEAD — Businesses across the state are being forced to slash working hours for employees, or even temporarily close their doors leaving employees temporarily without work. 

With local members of the community being affected by reduced incomes, one Spruce Head restaurant and inn, owned by husband-and-wife duo Greg and Lauren Soutiea. announced Thursday a way to provide some assistance, and support, to the local community. 

The Craignair Inn and Restuarant, in Spruce Head, will be holding a “Pay What You Can Meatloaf Friday” during lunch hours on Friday, March 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Those recently laid off, unable to work, or have otherwise seen a reduction of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic are invited to stop by, and will not be expected to pay. Call ahead (594-7644) and the meal will be brought out to you for take-away, while social distancing of six feet is maintained. 

The idea came from a former Southeast Missouri State University classmate, who owns the Three Monkeys Restaurant in St. Louis, of Greg’s that recently hosted a similar event. 

Piggybacking off the Craignair Inn’s winter “Friday Burger Nights” series, the Soutieas opted to introduce a different version of Friday meat after hosting its last version of the burger series last week. 

“We had some ground beef (locally sourced from Curtis Meats) remaining and it seemed like an easy kind of comfort food to make up for people who may be needing some comfort right about now,” the Soutieas said. 

People stopping by on Friday will receive one serving of meatloaf with a side dish, while supplies last. 

“If you’d like to support the Craignair and can pay something, that’s great,” the Soutieas said. “Either way, no questions asked.” 

Though the Soutieas are not actively soliciting donations, readers who may want to support the business during the pandemic are encouraged to purchase a gift certificate for family or friends (or even yourself) to be used at the inn or the restaurant by clicking here.   

Reach George Harvey at: sports@penbaypilot.com.