December 25, 2024–Minneapolis, Minnesota: Danny and Oksana Ziegler hosted Simpson shelter guests once again for a free Christmas breakfast at their neighborhood diner, Our Kitchen. This wonderful tradition began 12 years ago when former Simpson shelter manager Brian Bozeman wanted to host a special activity for shelter guests on Christmas Day. Our Kitchen, located two miles from the Simpson shelter, was a natural choice. The cozy diner has been in Danny’s family since 1971 and has served the East Harriet and South Uptown community for over 80 years. Providing a home-cooked meal to shelter guests was a natural fit for the restaurant’s community focus.
Brian and other volunteers bring 60 or 70 Simpson shelter guests on Christmas morning to Our Kitchen. Guests can order anything off the menu. Danny and Oksana dish up fluffy pancakes, crisp hash browns, and other classic American breakfast and lunch fare, all cooked to order. Guests enjoy good food and community in a dignified environment.
Simpson is grateful to Danny and Oksana for their continued hospitality and generosity. Danny teams up with another Minneapolis business, Patisserie 46, to provide pastries and treats for the annual breakfast. Our Kitchen customers also provide financial donations to help cover the cost of food for the meal. This year, Dan Madsen, Coach Ryan Siiro, and the Chaska High School Boys’ Hockey Team financially supported the event. Thank you to all who make this Christmas tradition possible!
