Marin County Couple Celebrates Two Decades of Service to Seniors in Need
- A couple in Marin County has dedicated the last 20 years to ensuring that senior citizens have enough to eat.
- Despite their own age, they have no plans to slow down their efforts.
- Their commitment highlights the ongoing need for support for vulnerable populations.
A dedicated couple from Marin County is marking their 20th year of providing essential food deliveries to senior citizens, demonstrating unwavering commitment despite their advanced ages. Ruth Schwartz, 79, and her husband Curt Kinkead, 82, operate their nonprofit with remarkable efficiency, serving approximately 1,000 individuals annually. Kinkead expressed the joy they derive from their work, stating, "The joy for me is knowing we're making life easier for an awful lot of people." The couple's efforts focus on low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities, particularly at the Hamlin Hotel in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood. They expanded their distribution route last year to honor a late friend who had dedicated years to serving residents of the single-room occupancy hotel. Schwartz recounted a poignant story of a woman living alone on minimal food, highlighting the critical need for their services. In addition to their regular deliveries, Schwartz and Kinkead have introduced weekly "open food days" in Bolinas and San Rafael, allowing community members to collect donations directly. Kinkead, who has volunteered tirelessly for seven days a week, finds fulfillment in their partnership, stating, "Functioning like that, as a partnership... is very, very gratifying." Despite their success, the couple faces financial challenges, with operating expenses primarily related to transportation. They are actively seeking donations to cover rising gasoline costs and maintain their delivery van, ensuring their vital service continues for those in need.