A new vending machine has been installed at the Johns Hopkins University Hospital for working mothers who are breastfeeding their babies. The new machine, in the mother’s room at the hospital, sells nursing pump accessories, storage bottles, breast pads, and other supplies. Users can use credit or debit cards to make purchases.
The new machine was the idea of Meg Stoltzfus, lifespan services manager for the Office of Work, Life, and Engagement in the university’s human resources department. Software links the machine to Stoltzfus’ computer which allows her to track inventory and restock the machine when necessary.
Johns Hopkins University maintains 14 mother’s room throughout its campus. Over the past year, working mothers made use of the these rooms 23,000 times.