By Paul Kurtz

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Officials at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children have cut the ribbon on a new kiosk for relatives of critical care patients.

The hospitality kiosk was developed for families who are not staying at the Ronald McDonald House.

Susan Campbell (in photo), executive director of the Ronald McDonald House, says a full-blown family room was not an option, given the hospital’s layout.

“So, we designed this specialized kiosk,” she tells KYW Newsradio.  “Three panels that will be staffed by Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House volunteers during the day.  And the purpose of which is for people to get away from the  bedside, come into the waiting room, have a snack or a meal, have a cup of coffee.”

There’s also a book and game exchange, along with toiletries for families sleeping bedside.

A more elaborate setup is in the works, says St. Christopher’s Carolyn Jackson.

“When we open our critical care tower in a couple of years, we’re moving toward having a room with a little more to offer for the families that are staying here with their kids,” Jackson says.