New restaurant in Dundee gives former inmates a second chance

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - A new restaurant in Omaha’s Dundee neighborhood is giving former inmates a second chance.

Ooh De Lally, the former site of Mark’s Bistro at 49th and Underwood Avenue, has partnered with Metropolitan Community College’s 180 Re-Entry Assistance Program.

Kimberly Anthony of Omaha knew from a very early age what she wanted to do in life.

“When I was 14, I was in Boys Town, and I took a baking class so I could eat during class.”

That quickly led to a love of baking.

“I did my very first wedding cake at 17.”

However, along the way, Anthony’s life took a turn.

”I was sober for 19 ½ years,” she said. “My mom got dementia and watching her deteriorate in front of me had a big impact. I was going through a divorce at the same time, and I relapsed.”

Anthony eventually ended up in prison for four years on drug-related charges.

Now, she’s a Pastry Chef at Ooh De Lally. The non-profit restaurant is the first to fully partner with MCC’s program.

“We have a population that is very motivated to succeed,” said Tim Steinbach, the restaurant’s executive director. “They’re very motivated to change their lives. We like to say it’s not just a job. We really do want to help the person become a positive member of society.”

During the three-month program, students earn micro-credits that can transfer to MCC, or they can go straight to work when it’s done. The help doesn’t end there.

“They’re going to get help with housing, they’re going to get help getting their cell phone, they’re going to help getting to places where they need to go whether that be a parole hearing, a doctor’s appointment,” Steinbach said. “Anything that they’re going to need, we’re going to help them out with.”

Steinbach says the community also benefits.

“The Dundee neighborhood has been fantastic. They’re our third partner, whether they like it or not, but everybody has been supremely positive.”

Anthony agrees.

“It’s wonderful to be surrounded by like-minded people that have been where I’ve been.”

Anthony’s long-term goal is to open her own pastry shop.

Since MCC’s Re-Entry Program started in 2015, it has helped nearly 9,800 people re-enter society.

The program hopes to hit 10,000 by its 10th anniversary next year.

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