Presenters:
Eliza Nations
Jasmine Yip
Ayla Schorn
University of Southern California
This Story Map enhances the visibility and accessibility of lactation rooms on the USC UPC campus. Through this research and public narrative, we aim to break down barriers for nursing individuals by mapping resources, centralizing data, and making the data publicly available, helping parents feel empowered in their parenting journey and careers. Studies show that providing such spaces can improve maternal and infant health, enhance workplace productivity, and reduce absenteeism.
Students, faculty, and staff collaborated to collect data using ArcGIS Field Maps, documenting buildings with designated lactation rooms and identifying additional spaces that could serve as lactation rooms, provided they meet criteria such as being safe, sanitary, and private. Data collection also included detailed attributes of these spaces, such as the availability of sinks, outlets, and refrigerators for storing breast milk.
Through this comprehensive approach and interactive presentation via Story Maps, we are promoting existing resources and communicating key findings, including the identification of locations lacking accessible lactation spaces, the determination of areas requiring additional facilities, and the availability of essential amenities. By leveraging geospatial technologies to identify gaps, this initiative offers a replicable model for institutions to address public health and social equity challenges while better supporting their communities.
