Whether parents are welcoming their first little one or adding another member to their crew, Emplify Health by Bellin and community partners are making sure Brown County families have the resources and support they need to thrive.
It all starts with the gift of reading. Now through March 11, Emplify Health by Bellin is hosting a children’s book drive to help build libraries for families across our community. New or gently used books can be dropped off at clinics throughout the area, including Green Bay, Ashwaubenon and De Pere. See below for full list*.
“Books are such a great gift for new and growing families as they support bonding and literacy,” said Melissa Viste, Emplify Health Community Outreach & Engagement Specialist. “Numerous studies have shown engaging in reading early results in stronger relationships with families, as well as increased engagement in preventative health measures. Programs like Books for Babies and Prescription for Reading mix the fun of reading with the importance of literacy for overall wellness.”
The collected books will be distributed to families at a free Community Baby Shower on March 19 at Lambeau Field. This special event, running from 4 to 7 p.m., is designed for expectant and growing families with children under age 3.
The Community Baby Shower will offer an opportunity for families to connect with local resources, participate in expert-led learning sessions and connect with mental health and wellness professionals — and there will be plenty of great giveaways. Local community organizations and businesses have joined forces to create exclusive MVP Community Care Kits, with supplies limited to the first 75 households, so early arrival is encouraged.
“Whether you're a first-time parent looking for guidance or a growing family seeking support, this event brings together everything you need in one welcoming space,” Viste said. “We are so proud to have a variety of community partners, as well as the Green Bay Packers, coming together to support families. Our hope is that with this event, families will know resources are here when they need them.”
No registration is required for the Community Baby Shower and further details can be found on Emplify Health by Bellin’s Facebook event.
*Community members wishing to contribute new or gently used children’s books may drop donations at the following Emplify Health by Bellin locations through March 11:
• Ashwaubenon Clinic: 1630 Commanche Avenue
• Children & Adolescent Center: 2550 S. Ashland Avenue
• De Pere East (Pediatrics): 555 Redbird Circle, Suite 300
• De Pere West: 1800 Lawrence Drive
For additional donation pick-ups or questions, please contact Jamy Xiong at jamy.xiong@emplifyhealth.org or Angie Wilson at angela.wilson@emplifyhealth.org.