KENOSHA, Wis. — A new coffee shop for veterans recently opened in Kenosha.

Bunker’s Coffee House for veterans has made an impact in just their first two weeks of being open. They have been able to help veterans in need in the Kenosha community. Maureen Szczepankiewiczli is a Navy veteran who is proud of her service.

“Other than my kids, the one thing that I am most proud of is my military background,” Szczepankiewiczli said.

However, after having a stroke last year, she’s been unable to work, and she is trying to navigate the VA benefit system all while trying to get back on her feet. It’s been a struggle to pay rent and put food on the table, but Bunker’s Coffee House has been able to step in and help.

“They are helping me with my rent. They are helping with food. Last year I had a stroke and I couldn’t find any place to help me with anything and now she came here out of nowhere,” Szczepankiewiczli said as tears rolled down her cheeks.

She said she is filled with happy tears because Bunker’s Coffee House has been able to help her with any issues as they come and connect her with other veterans in the process.

“It’s nice to get out and talk to other veterans and stuff like that. Someone that ones what you are going through and everything,” Szczepankiewiczli said.

Jo Wynn is the woman behind the coffee shop. Wynn has been running Walkin’ in my shoes, a nonprofit that helps homeless in the community. Wynn got the idea for Bunker’s House a few years ago after connecting with veterans in the community and understanding their needs. Bunker’s House Coffee also serves as a food pantry for those in need.

“The impact is people coming back to help others. This is what this program is all about. We are all volunteers to do something good for someone else other than ourselves,” Wynn said.

For Wynn, giving back to those who served their country is extremely important.

“If we can make it simplified for them, then these are the doors that I want them to come through,” Wynn said.

It’s an impact people like Szczepankiewiczli have felt firsthand in just the first few weeks of being open.

“I want every veteran to come,” Szczepankiewiczli said. “She will make you feel welcome here and make you feel like you’re not alone.”

The coffee house will serve as a new spot for veterans looking for community or a helping hand to navigate all they’ve earned.