Our Mission Is To Feed The Need.
A Note from our Founders: Lisa and Freddie McMillan
Allow us to introduce ourselves:
We are Lisa and Freddie McMillan, the founders of this unique Alabama Donations-Only Restaurant. We started this initiative because we realized many in our community, especially Senior Citizens, were going hungry and often had to choose between food or medication. Having experienced hunger ourselves, we didn’t want anyone else to suffer, so we founded Carlisa Inc.
Initially, we operated as a hot food delivery service, then provided free meals at a local college, and eventually evolved into Drexell & Honeybee’s. One day, while delivering hot meals to a senior citizen, we recognized that many lacked the luxury of dining out. We wanted to change that, and that’s how Drexell & Honeybee’s was born.
At Drexell & Honeybee’s, we not only continue to feed the hungry but also transform the dining experience through our donations-only model. When people come to our restaurant, they receive more than just a meal—they regain a sense of dignity and community.
Meet The People Who Have Been Impacted By What We Do:
Meet Dana
Dana visited us on Christmas Eve 2022. It was cold outside and she was without shoes. Many in our restaurant were concerned for her and even offered to buy her some shoes, but she couldn’t wear them because of a condition.
As we began to talk to her, we realized that what she really needed was a listening ear. When she entered she felt dejected and alone, but after some conversation and prayer, she left with lifted spirits. Ever since she has become a regular visitor of the restaurant. When asked how D&H has impacted her, she said it’s helped her find herself again because of how we celebrated her and gave her space to just be.
Volunteers from Shelbyville, IN
“The experience of serving the community of Brewton touched my heart. Working alongside you was so special.” -Laura
“We had a terrific time meeting you, Freddie, Curtis, your family, friends, and community! God was so good to lead us to you folks! Lisa, your mission is a great idea followed through! You are truly doing God’s work. When we are blessed, we are to bless others. You are a wonderful example. God Bless you and Drexell & Honeybees!”
The Man From Florida
A couple of years ago, we ran across a man who was hitchhiking from Florida to Pennsylvania. It was a rainy day when he came knocking at our door and although we weren’t open yet, we let him in and he shared his story with us.
We decided to book him a hotel where he could spend the night, and took to FB to ask for help. To our surprise, a friend in Georgia and a couple of friends on FB were willing to help!
We called the gentleman excited to share the good news, and he told us thank you but that it was no longer necessary. A friend of his was traveling from FL and would be able to take him home.
He was grateful for our generosity and humbled by the willingness of our community to care for him.
FAQ
We operate entirely on donations, covering our overhead costs and food expenses. Donations come from visitors to our restaurant and supporters nationwide. These contributions allow us to serve our guests for free, without expecting anything in return.
No proof of need is required. Simply come in, get in line for a warm, southern, home-cooked meal—no questions asked.
That’s perfectly fine. We are committed to feeding those in need without expecting anything in return. Just come in and enjoy a free meal. Someone else’s donation is taking care of you.
Yes, we are a ministry of Carlisa Inc. and operate as a nonprofit. EIN: 94-3421300
Short answer: We are a restaurant. We serve all who come in, in a dignified environment that operates much like a traditional restaurant. We encourage people to enjoy a meal together and offer a selection of home-cooked dishes from entrees to desserts.
We have a small donation box secluded in a corner of the restaurant where you can anonymously leave your donation or even a thank-you note—both mean a lot to us.
We offer a variety of home-cooked, southern meals, primarily comfort foods. Our specialties include meatloaf, mac and cheese, and bread pudding.
If you are financially able, you can leave a donation or become a recurring donor to help support our vision. If you’re unable to donate, we’d love for you to stay connected by following us on our social media platforms and sharing or commenting on our posts to help spread the word about the work we do.
Short answer: everyone. Everyone is welcome. We believe everyone should be able to enjoy the experience of eating in a restaurant and the dignity of a warm, home-cooked meal. So whoever you are, and wherever you are from, come and enjoy a free meal with us. We’d love to have you.