Keith and Phyllis Johnson have a heart to serve. Through a new California grocery store, they are doing just that.

Married for 30 years, the couple opened a new Grocery Outlet store in Sacramento, CA, and were welcomed with open arms by the community. Keith, a local pastor with nearly two decades of experience in supply chain and grocery operations, told the Carmichael Times about their vision to do what is “right for this community.” Phyllis acknowledges the pair is “blessed” and hopes that the grocery store’s arrival will create positive economic outcomes for the community.

The couple also presented $500 grants to local nonprofits UniverSOUL Café and Lee King’s Miracle Homes Foundation.

“We are excited to be in this neighborhood. We didn’t just bring fresh products, we brought jobs, and we’re making economic changes. When we had to hire people, we came here. This is about bringing opportunity back into our neighborhoods,” Phyllis told the Carmichael Times regarding the 18,000-square-foot store.

Keith commented:

“I started in this business 18 years ago. We brought a grocery store that was a need in this area. Our customers are our boss, we are here to serve, we are here to do things that’s right for this community, we are here to drive business. We are here to support the surrounding area and the Sacramento area.”

Local and state representatives were present at the grand opening to celebrate the Johnsons’ work. Those in attendance included Mika Klinsmann from State Senator Roger Niello’s office, Iris Austin from Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond’s office, and community leaders such as John Hoffman, president and CEO of the Greater Arden Chamber of Commerce.

“You are helping not only the small business scenario but all the people who live and work here,” Hoffman said, according to the Carmichael Times.

What’s more, Keith and Phyllis also made history as the first Black owners of a Grocery Outlet in the Sacramento area.

“Each of our Grocery Outlet stores is independently owned and operated, and today, we are proud to introduce the first Black-owned Grocery Outlet in the Sacramento area,” said Grocery Outlet’s Director of Sales and Merchandise Jason Miyata, per Carmichael Times.

“Keith and Phyllis Johnson have poured their hearts into this store. This has been a long-time dream for them, one rooted in purpose and community,” Miyata continued.