Nov. 14, 2025: Lakewood is thrilled to announce the opening of a milk depot at Longbella Drug located at The Plaza in Staples.
In partnership with the Minnesota Milk Bank for Babies, this new drop-off donor site provides a convenient, local location for approved breast milk donors to contribute life-saving nourishment for medically fragile infants across Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
Longbella Drug was chosen for its central location, extended hours and ability to safely store frozen milk until it is transported to the Minnesota Milk Bank for Babies in Roseville. There, all donated milk is carefully tested, pasteurized and distributed to hospitals and families in need.
“We wanted a space that was accessible six days a week and had a monitored freezer to store donations,” explained Amy Monson, obstetrics RN and certified lactation consultant at Lakewood. “Longbella Drug was a natural fit. Tanner and the Longbella team were excited to help make this happen.”
For Tanner Roberts, pharmacist at Longbella Drug, hosting the milk depot aligns with their mission to serve families throughout the region.
“We’re honored to be part of something that helps so many,” Roberts said. “It’s rewarding to know that by providing this service locally, we’re helping infants in NICUs across Minnesota get the best possible start.”
This new depot also offers Lakewood families a chance to give back once they have established their own milk supply.
“For moms who have experienced a strong milk supply or even overcome challenges of preterm delivery, donating milk can be a way to pay it forward,” Monson said, adding. “This is another way our patients can help other families.”
Looking ahead, Lakewood hopes to expand its involvement with the Minnesota Milk Bank for Babies and eventually offer additional support programs for families who need donor milk locally. “This is just the first step,” Hanson said. “Our end goal is that every baby who needs milk has access to it, close to home.”
To become a milk donor, complete the form at www.mnmilkbank.org/donate-milk. After approval, donors must schedule a time to drop off their labeled, frozen milk at Longbella Drug during business hours.
For more information about Lakewood’s new milk depot or to schedule a drop off time, contact Lakewood’s lactation department at (218) 894-8846.
Pictured: Tanner Roberts, Longbella Drug by Lakewood manager/pharmacist; Nan Hanson, OB manager/RN; Amy Monson, OB RN and certified lactation consultant.