Author: Margi Preus
Illustrator: Jaime Zollars

If there was one person the residents in the Northwoods of Wisconsin knew they could count on, it was Dr. Kate. That is why when the opportunity presented itself, the students of the town knew she should be able to count on them, too! Dr. Kate (Pelham) Newcomb’s journey to become a doctor was not an easy, but she was determined to make it happen. During her career, she helped many people, often traveling long distances in dangerous weather conditions to do so. However, as the small town grew bigger, it became clear that only making house calls simply was not going to cut it. They needed a hospital, but where were they going to get the money?

One day, the students in the town, many of whom Dr. Kate helped deliver, came up with an idea: Start a penny drive! What began as small change collected quickly gained momentum, drawing support from across the country and eventually making the hospital a reality. Snowshoe Kate and the Hospital Built for Pennies demonstrates the importance of community and what is possible when people come together. Their efforts showcase that generosity can overcome even the greatest obstacles.

Dr. Kate and every individual who contributed to making the hospital happen shows what service in action looks like in real life! The NVMM encourages youth and their families to get involved in their communities through our Service-In-Action Nooks. Supported by the Nationwide Foundation and in partnership with the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML), this pilot project is aimed at fostering community engagement and literacy through storytelling and service. Inspired by the experiences of Veterans, the Service-in-Action Nooks bridge storytelling and action, empowering participants to be inspired by Veterans’ stories, reflect on the meaning of service, and take steps that strengthen civic connection.

If you are local, visit the museum, the Columbus Metropolitan Main Library or one of the rotating locations (currently the Whitehall branch library) to check out one of the nooks and participate in a small, but impactful service project.

Extend your Learning:

Ask Questions:
Use these comprehension questions with your kids or students to build their literacy skills!

1. What is the main idea of the story? What details let us know that this is the main idea?
2. What were some of the setbacks that Dr. Kate was faced with when trying to become a doctor?
3. What were some of the things that Dr. Kate did to help her patients?
4. How many pennies were ultimately collected?
5. What was the name of the hospital that the pennies helped to build?
6. Like the students in the book, how can you help give back to your community?