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It's been two years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic and to mark the event, Redwood City photographer is resharing a photo series that honors essential workers, specifically Dehoff's Key Market grocers.
Steve Johnson photographed 40 frontline workers, all employees at Dehoff’s, many of whom he said were always helpful and cheerful. According to a statement he shared along with the project, the workers range in age from 17 to 70.
The photos were originally displayed outside the store along with brief, often fun and quirky bios of each worker.
“They are essential workers in every meaning of the word,” he said in his statement. “I am grateful for their service.”
Noemy Collantes has been at Key for a year. She cooks and serves at the deli. She works part-time as a babysitter and a cook.
Dennis has been at Key for 52 years! He has one wife and four grandchildren. Wife, family, church, more could be said, but it isn't necessary.
Mike began working at Dehoff's Key Market at the age of 16. He has two sons, 18 and 20. They enjoy the outdoors together.
After 28 years in wine sales, John retired. Two years later, he found a home at Key. When not at work, John enjoys motorcycling and DIY projects.
Beth has worked in the deli for 8 months. She is single with one boyfriend, one dog and four cats. She likes to sew and read. Dungeons and Dragons take up a fair amount of her time.
Roger has 16 years at Key and 35 in the Retail Clerks Union. His interests are his wife, fishing, gardening, cooking – in that order. The store manager thinks that Roger is his assistant.
At Key Market for 23 years. Kevin is happy at work and loves his quiet time at home.
Manuel began work at Key on March 20, 2020. He is married to Gabi, who works in the deli. They have a 3-year-old daughter who is the engine of his life. He works three jobs.
After a career as a registered dental assistant, Loretta began work at Key on March 1, 2020. She likes quiet time at home and all kinds of dancing.
Paul worked at Key from 2000 to 2015, took a break to work security and returned in 2019. He's here for the duration. Paul is married and has a 17-year-old son.
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For more of Johnson's photos of essential workers, visit his website here.
Johnson's current series of photos called "Hands of Redwood City" highlights people in Redwood City who work with their hands. They include carpenters, bakers, machinists, brewers and welders. They are currently on display at the Talk of Broadway.
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