This is one of a series of stories about the nonprofit agencies that receive money from The Gazette/El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking Fund campaign that runs through the holidays.

Velda Carroll relies on Silver Key Senior Services to get around town, but she also credits the organization with providing the opportunity to live as independently as possible.

“They have been my lifeline to the world since 2012,” Carroll said. “I don’t know what I would do without them. I have no vehicle and no other way to get out and about.”

Silver Key offers a range of services throughout the region to the elderly, including transportation, companionship, home improvements, meals and more.

For Carroll this means she can get to the grocery store, the pharmacy and doctors’ appointments without worry.

“Anything I need, they get me there,” she said.

She is charged a minimal fee for the service.

“I keep wishing I could win the lottery,” she said. “If I did, I’d make sure Silver Key was in the beneficiary column. Being the one in need is hard sometimes.”

As a commodities recipient, Carroll is given canned goods, pasta and rice once a month.

“It’s quite adequate for someone who lives alone,” she said.

Carroll said her landlord introduced her to Silver Key and she has been impressed with the kindness of everyone she’s met – especially the volunteer drivers.

“They’re out seeing what they can do for their community,” she said. “They are all really, really, really kind. It’s heartwarming to have such help.”

Carroll said the drivers always make sure she gets up her stairs and safely into her home.

“I feel very cared for and watched over,” she added.