New child feeding space open in UMSU University Centre
The University is committed to supporting the family care needs of its community. Members of our community caring for children need a safe, comfortable, and private environment to feed them while spending time on our campuses. In the interest of accommodating those needs, Student Affairs is opening a new child-feeding facility on the Fort Garry Campus.
Opening November 17, 2025 is a new Child Feeding Room in 532 UMSU University Centre. Caregivers are welcome to use the space for:
- Breastfeeding
- Pumping milk
- Storing breastmilk
- Diapering
- Feeding young children
Dr. Brandy Usick, Executive Director, Student Engagement and Success spearheaded the project made possible thanks to the Strategic Initiatives Support Fund.
“We are grateful for support through the Strategic Initiatives Support Fund to help us to expand support for those with family responsibilities in our community. Creation of a centrally located Child Feeding Room provides community members, particularly students, with a comfortable place to pump and to feed their infants and children.”
This project is aligned with MomentUM strategic theme of Reimagining Engagement. Our physical spaces play a vital role in reflecting the diverse needs of our community and importance to be accessible to all.
Francene Perehinec, Family Resource Coordinator, summarises the goals of the project:
“The Child Feeding Room is designed to offer practical support and convenience, helping families manage their responsibilities efficiently and with confidence. We truly hope this space will become a valued and frequently visited resource for those who are pumping, nursing, or need to feed their little ones.”
The space was designed with comfort in mind. Users will find a quiet, inviting atmosphere. Furnishings include comfortable seating, a sink, a microwave, a kettle, a mini fridge, and a change table. Supplies for easy cleanup and disinfection of surfaces are provided. For privacy, the room is also equipped with a lockable door and blinds.
Inclusivity is another key principle incorporated into the space. The room is accessible by elevator and has enough space to fit a stroller or wheelchair. Caregivers with multiple children can also bring them inside while they breastfeed or pump, and some books and toys are available to occupy them.
The room is located on the 5th floor of UMSU University Centre, Room 532. Those interested in using the space can sign out the key at the International Centre (down the hall in Room 541). The room can be accessed during regular office hours 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Those wanting to access the room during after-hours events and programming are encouraged to make arrangements with Francene Perehinec, Family Resource Coordinator.
To ensure this new resource meets the needs of the community, caregivers who use the space are encouraged to complete a feedback survey via the QR code and link in the space. UM will use the responses to continue to improve this service.
In addition to the new space, there are several other existing child feeding areas across both UM campuses:
- Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge (114 Sidney Smith, Fort Garry Campus)
- Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education, Fort Garry Campus)
- Global Lounge at the International Centre (542 UMSU University Centre, Fort Garry Campus)
- Faculty of Arts Quiet Room (605 Fletcher Argue, Fort Garry Campus)
- The Women’s Centre (190 Helen Glass, Fort Garry Campus)
- Child Feeding Room (Room 290a Brodie Centre, next to the RFHS Family Centre, Bannatyne Campus)
Many of these spaces are subject to access upon request. Visit UM’s Family Resources website for more information including details about other services, resources, and spaces. Student can find ways to connect with community and receive support while meeting academic requirements at the Student Parents/Caregiver webpage.