Tiempo: Open Doors of NY and NJ helping immigrants, plus the founders of Las Qoyas

Tiempo with Joe Torres airs Sunday at 11:30 a.m. on Channel 7, WABC-TV in New York City.

Tiempo: Open Door of NY and NJ, plus Las Qoyas

Joe Torres talks to Luis Iza from Open Door and revisits with the founders of Las Qoyas

ByJoe Torres and Eyewitness News WABC logo

Sunday, September 6, 2026

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- A nonprofit organization founded by immigrants is helping families across New Jersey and New York gain the skills and support they need to succeed in their new communities.

The Open Door of New Jersey and New York provides free educational programs and community-building opportunities for immigrants throughout the region. Founded in 2010 by a Cuban couple, the organization's mission is to empower immigrant families and help them integrate into society.

The nonprofit offers weekly classes in English, GED preparation, mathematics and computer skills. In addition to its educational programs, The Open Door creates opportunities for participants to connect with one another through activities designed to strengthen community ties and provide support networks.

Leaders of the organization say access to education and resources is critical for helping newcomers navigate life in the United States, pursue career opportunities and become active members of their communities.

Luis Iza of The Open Door of New Jersey and New York join Tiempo to discuss the organization's work, its impact on immigrant families and the growing need for accessible educational services across the region.

Later, three Latina entrepreneurs who transformed their business during the COVID-19 pandemic are continuing to grow their unique approach to bringing Peruvian cuisine to New Yorkers.

Las Qoyas, a Manhattan-based Peruvian food catering company, first gained attention after reinventing its operation during the pandemic. Faced with the challenges that affected many small businesses, the trio adapted its business model and found new ways to connect with customers while keeping its venture alive.

Since then, the women behind Las Qoyas have continued building on that success.

The founders of Las Qoyas join Tiempo to provide an update on their business, discuss how they navigated the challenges of the pandemic and explain how they are continuing to thrive through their evolving dining concept.