Winona, Minn – Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center (HVMHC) has launched a new monthly giveback program to support individuals, families, and the communities across the five counties they serve. Each month, HVMHC staff, clients, and community members will have the opportunity to donate items that go directly to local organizations and causes in need.
The program was initiated by HVMHC staff members Jen Dieck and Kelly Nicolai, who recognized the opportunity to extend the organization’s commitment to the community beyond clinical care. Their leadership in developing the giveback program reflects HVMHC’s mission, vision, and values—demonstrating a focus on community engagement, responsiveness, and holistic support for both clients and families.
The program kicked off in August with a school supply drive, a timely effort during the back-to-school season. Thanks to the generosity of staff and community members, HVMHC collected hundreds of school supplies that are now being distributed to schools across Winona, Wabasha, Houston, Goodhue, and Fillmore Counties. Each county will receive a share of supplies to ensure that students and families throughout the region are supported during this critical time of year.
“Our school supply drive shows the incredible impact we can make when we come together to support the communities we serve,” said Jen Dieck, HVMHC SUD Treatment Director. “Families face real challenges during the back-to-school season, and being able to provide these resources helps ease the burden and allows students to start the year ready to learn.”
For September, HVMHC is turning its attention to furry friends with a pet supply drive to support local animal shelters. Community members are encouraged to donate items such as pet food, toys, blankets, and cleaning supplies. Donations can be dropped off at any of HVMHC’s four clinic locations during business hours:
- Winona Clinic – 420 East Sarnia St., Suite 2500
- Red Wing Clinic – 2835 S. Service Dr., Suite 105
- Wabasha Clinic – 611 Broadway Ave., Suite 204
- Caledonia Clinic – 221 South Kingston St.
“The giveback program is an amazing way for us to extend care beyond our clinic walls,” said Kelly Nicolai, HVMHC Crisis Response Practitioner. “Jen and I are grateful to help launch this initiative, and we’ve already seen how excited our staff and community are to participate. Each month, we’ll have new opportunities to come together and meet different needs in our communities.”
HVMHC encourages community members to join them in these monthly efforts. To stay up to date on future giveback programs, follow HVMHC on social media:
- Facebook: @HiawathaValleyMentalHealthCenter
- Instagram: @hiawathavalleymentalhealth
About Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center
Founded in 1965, Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center (HVMHC) provides comprehensive behavioral health services to individuals and families across Southeastern Minnesota. The organization is committed to delivering compassionate, person-centered care and fostering wellness in every community it serves.
For more information about HVMHC’s services, visit www.hvmhc.org. To schedule an appointment, individuals can call 1-800-657-6777 or visit www.hvmhc.org/contact/make-an-appointment.
HVMHC also oversees the Mobile Crisis Unit, available 24 hours a day in Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Wabasha, and Winona Counties. Assistance can be reached by calling 1-844-CRISIS2 (1-844-274-7472).