The Ridgeview Foundation held a book drive “Books for Kids” through the month of December, with participation from more than nine Ridgeview locations, including emergency departments in Arlington, Chaska, Le Sueur and Waconia; clinics in Belle Plaine, Chanhassen, Delano and Excelsior; and the Ridgeview Foundation office in Waconia.

The “Books for Kids” program was launched to provide new books to children staying in Ridgeview’s pediatric unit in Waconia, which opened earlier this year.

“The idea came from our Pediatrics Department, who recognized how a book can offer comfort in a hospital setting. It’s something kids can enjoy with their parents or on their own,” shared Aspen Schmidt, Annual Fund specialist at the Ridgeview Foundation.

By the end of the drive, more than 300 new books were collected with an additional $1,200 raised for purchasing more.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of our community,” said Lisa Steinbauer, Ridgeview’s director of marketing communications. “This was our first book drive, and the support we have received has been incredible.”

The collected books will primarily serve pediatric patients in the Waconia inpatient unit but may also reach emergency departments as needed. The foundation emphasized that only brand-new books were accepted due to sanitary requirements. Used books donated during the drive were redirected to local food shelves.

For those who missed the drive, donations are still welcome.

“We have an ongoing Amazon wishlist, which we update periodically with items for our NICU, emergency rooms and pediatric units,” Schmidt added.

Looking ahead, Ridgeview plans to purchase additional books with funds raised online, ensuring an ongoing supply for young patients.

“This effort is about more than books,” Steinbauer said. “It’s about creating a sense of normalcy and comfort for kids during a challenging time. This program wouldn’t have been possible without the kindness of the community. It’s a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve together.”