HealthPartners Hospice & Palliative Care is starting a new program supporting hospice patients who are veterans. In partnership with We Honor Veterans, a national program promoting specialized care for former service members, HealthPartners is joining Our Lady of Peace, St. Croix Hospice and Fairview Home Care & Hospice in seeking volunteers who are veterans themselves to connect with these patients.

According to the We Honor Veterans program, “Veteran volunteers have the unique ability to relate and connect with each patient, thereby creating an environment where life review and healing may occur.”

Volunteers might listen to life stories, take part in recognition ceremonies, share current events, listen to music, play cards or games, and keep vigil when death is near.

Any veterans interested in volunteering or with questions about the program should contact Marie Blakeborough at 612-875-5273 by June 2.

Vet-to-Vet volunteers do not need to be affiliated with HealthPartners in order to participate. Interested volunteers are invited to attend a one-day training session for the program on Saturday, June 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Our Lady of Peace Home in St. Paul. Lunch will be provided.