The next cupcake you buy could help support women transitioning from homelessness.
Open Door Bakery on South Division Avenue and Cherry Street in downtown Grand Rapids is operated entirely by women who came into the emergency shelter then got involved in Degage Ministries’ workforce development program run by Manager Michelle Denard.
“We employe people that are in shelter and just help them get back into the workforce, help them, get skills and confidence and you know, just make them feel normal again.”
Open Door Bakery is expanding this fall to include more treats, bagel sandwiches, elevated coffee options, DoorDash delivery and curbside options.
Denard hopes the changes will attract more business from downtown workers passing through the busy area in the heart of the city.
“You're purchasing with a purpose. And the purpose is that all of our proceeds go back into supporting the women that we serve. So you're not putting your money into a corporate pocket. We're putting the money back into moving women forward and getting them housed and stable. That's the goal.”
If you work or live in the Heartside District, you get a 15% discount.
The bakery operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and weekends 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Open Door also caters weddings and other events as requested.
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