Project Story

A space for feeding, a space for belonging.

The Faculty of Science is home to one of the largest and most vibrant communities at the University of Manitoba, with more than 8,100 students, faculty, staff, and researchers who push the boundaries of discovery every day. With women now representing 49% of the faculty’s population, including a growing number pursuing graduate studies, and research careers, it’s essential that our spaces evolve to support the diverse needs of our community.

With every corner of the faculty dedicated to advancing science, flexible wellness spaces can be hard to come by, especially for breastfeeding mothers and child feeding parents who typically feed or pump every 3-4 hours for ~30 minutes and often find themselves doing so in bathrooms, closets or their cars.

That’s why we’re turning to an innovative, soundproof, space-efficient solution: a freestanding lactation pod designed for breastfeeding mothers, child feeding parents and caregivers.

These pods are self-contained, private, and accessible with keyless entry through a user-friendly mobile app, so users never need to track down a key or rely on staff availability. They offer comfort and dignity for those who need to breastfeed, chestfeed, or pump while on campus. It’s a simple solution with lasting impact. It says you belong here, no matter what stage of life you’re in.

Why it matters

Balancing the demands of studying, working, and caregiving isn’t easy. For many new parents in science related fields (whether students, faculty, or staff), having a welcoming, private space to express milk or feed their baby can make all the difference.

Research consistently shows that breastfeeding supports the health and development of infants and provides important benefits for maternal health as well. Creating spaces that make breastfeeding possible on campus is not just a convenience, it’s a meaningful investment in community well-being.

Hear from Dr. Meghan Azad, Canada Research Chair in Early Nutrition at the University of Manitoba, as she shares why breastfeeding support matters:

Installing a freestanding lactation pod will:

• Provide a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for nursing parents.
• Support the health and comfort of caregivers returning to campus.
• Demonstrate the Faculty’s commitment to being a family-friendly, accessible, and equitable community.
• Help attract and retain women and underrepresented caregivers in science.

When we invest in spaces like this, we invest in a culture that makes science stronger, more inclusive, and more human.

How YOU can help

Our goal is to raise $30,000 to purchase and install one state-of-the-art, soundproof  lactation pod in the Faculty of Science on the Fort Garry campus, complete with seating for up to four occupants, electrical outlets, lighting, and privacy controls.

Together, we can make the Faculty of Science a place where everyone can thrive…in the lab, in the classroom, and in life.

Every gift makes a difference. Whether you give in honour of a mother, mentor, or caregiver, your contribution helps create a lasting symbol of inclusion in the Faculty of Science.

Should we not reach our goal, funds raised will be directed to support Women in STEM at UM.

Be part of the change

Your support will help us transform a small piece of campus into a big symbol of care and inclusion.

Let’s make the Faculty of Science a place where everyone, including parents, can do their best work.

👉 Give today to help bring a lactation pod to the Faculty of Science.

For more information about this initiative, to make a pledge over time or a gift of securities, please contact Laura.asher@umanitoba.ca.