Treated With Kindness—Luis and Yanibel Find Comfort and Food at The Open Door

It wasn't just a typical Thursday morning at The Open Door Pantry in Eagan—at least not for Luis and Yanibel. The couple from Richfield were celebrating a special day: their wedding anniversary. 

It seemed only appropriate that The Open Door had a beautiful selection of fresh-cut flowers at the check out to celebrate the occasion. "The treatment we get at The Open Door is spectacular. We often talk with the people who work here and they always treat us with kindness," says Yanibel through a Spanish translator. 

Luis and Jennifer grab a bouquet of fresh cut flowers at The Open Door.

Of course, Luis and Yanibel were not just at The Open Door to pick up a bouquet—they were picking up fresh fruits and vegetables to prepare meals at home. “We love the different types of vegetables. We try to eat as healthy as possible, as well as economical as possible,” says Luis through a Spanish translator. “We eat a lot of meals that are protein heavy—so, chicken and beef. But we also want to include all of the vegetables to make sure we have enough for everyone. So that’s how we cook: mostly rice, pasta, some bread—but all with protein and lots of vegetables.” 

A big reason Luis and Yanibel appreciate The Open Door so much is the accessibility. They have a young daughter, so Luis is the only source of income for the family. "Everyone, whether you’re a migrant family or not, can have this service free of charge. It’s so well organized and such a blessing when there is not enough income for the family," says Luis. 

Luis and Jennifer love using vegetables to help round out their protein-based meals.

Luis and Yanibel have felt the stress of rising grocery prices like many Minnesotans. "Having access to the market allows us to last the month," says Luis. Second Harvest Heartland is proud to partner with organizations like The Open Door that provide not only fresh produce to shoppers, but kindness and comfort. 

When asked how they plan on celebrating their anniversary, they said they would be having dinner with their daughter, who has her own favorite selections when visiting the food shelf. 

"Fruits, fruits, fruits," says Luis with a laugh. "All the fruits. And chocolate!"