Blending Community Support and Life-Changing Services

Restoring More Than a Home

Beltrami Electric Cooperative has announced The Door as the 2024 Touchstone Energy Community Award recipient for its remarkable dedication to uplifting the Laporte community. "The Door demonstrates a strong commitment to community that we at Beltrami Electric value highly," said Angela Lyseng, communications specialist.

Located in a beautifully restored 1906 home—one of Laporte’s oldest residences—The Door serves as both a welcoming coffee shop and an emergency shelter for those in need. Founded by Joyce and Kevin Day, the space represents a vision of hope where coffee and compassion converge to transform lives.

Coffee with a Purpose

What sets The Door apart is its unique dual mission. While patrons enjoy their coffee, every purchase helps fund essential services for the homeless. With room to house up to seven individuals at a time, The Door provides temporary housing, meals, clothing, and resources aimed at fostering stability and self-sufficiency.

Guests are welcomed into a warm and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is matched by the hum of conversation and connection. “Every cup of coffee enjoyed here contributes to rebuilding lives,” said Joyce Day.

Expanding Impact: A New Chapter

The Door’s journey doesn’t stop there. Recently, the organization acquired Laporte’s old town hall across the street, setting the stage for further expansion. The planned renovations will create separate spaces for families and individuals, enhancing privacy and safety. The basement, with its own entrance, will serve as an activity center for local youth — a place to nurture community connections and growth.

Recognition and Support

The Touchstone Energy Community Award comes with a $1,000 donation and an engraved plaque. The Door’s nomination will now advance to the statewide Minnesota Touchstone Energy Community Award competition, where the winning organization will receive an additional $2,000 to continue their impactful work.

Transforming Lives, One Step at a Time

The Door’s success is measured in the lives it has touched. From individuals overcoming homelessness to securing employment and stability, its mission is a testament to the power of community. “The stories we witness inspire us to keep growing and finding new ways to address the housing shortage,” said Kevin Day.

The Door isn’t just a place to grab coffee — it’s a movement of hope and transformation, one cup at a time.