Minerva's journey from Puerto Rico to the United States was not without its challenges. At the tender age of 15, she found herself in a new country, unable to speak a word of English. But Minerva was not one to be deterred by obstacles. With determination and resilience, she set out to learn English on her own, immersing herself in books, conversations, and anything else she could get her hands on.
Despite the hardships, Minerva managed to navigate her way through high school and college, all while working part-time jobs to support herself. Her tenacity and hard work paid off when she graduated from college with flying colors.
But Minerva's journey was far from over. After college, she discovered her true calling: helping others. It was a passion that burned bright within her, driving her to make a difference in the lives of those around her. And so, she embarked on a career at the Great Cleveland Food Bank, where she dedicated herself to feeding the hungry and making sure no one went without a meal.
"Better food, better life," became Minerva's mantra—a belief that good food was not just a luxury, but a necessity for a healthy and fulfilling life. And it was this belief that led her to open her own urban market in downtown Cincinnati. Located at 309 Vine Street, the Urban Market was a unique space where people could access fresh produce, organic meats, and gluten-free options, regardless of their background.
For Minerva, the Urban Market was more than just a business—it was a testament to her commitment to making good food accessible to all. Whether it was feeding those in need or providing downtown residents with healthy food options, Minerva believed that everyone deserved access to nutritious and delicious food.
So, if you ever find yourself in downtown Cincinnati, be sure to stop by the Urban Market. You'll not only find fresh and delicious food, but you'll also be supporting a woman who has dedicated her life to making the world a better place, one meal at a time.