A special friendship

After Steve Larson drops off a hot lunch for Henry, who turned 100 in February,  the Meals on Wheels volunteer usually stays for a chat. The two friends enjoy talking about jazz, politics and other topics. "I got to know Henry because he was usually on my route. We just connected and developed a kinship. He's a remarkable man who has led a remarkable life," said Steve, a writer and filmmaker who became a Keystone volunteer last year.

Henry has lived in the same St. Paul apartment for the past 30 years. With the help of Meals on Wheels and other home care services, he has been able to maintain his independence. "As you get older, you begin to need help. This program means I don't have to cook a meal. It's a big energy saver for me," said Henry, a lifelong musician who played in a military band overseas during World War II and later worked for the railroad and at 3M.

Henry's daughter, Janice, 70, lives in Oregon. She says the Meals on Wheels program has been a comfort. "Living out of state, I worry about him all the time. These volunteers have my everlasting gratitude. They don't just deliver the meal, they know who they are delivering to and and are extremely caring and kind. They may not know this but that few seconds of kindness and conversation could be all a person in my father's situation, living alone, may get that day."