August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of breastfeeding and ensure that all parents have the resources, spaces, and support they need to nourish their children. This nationwide observance emphasizes not only the health benefits of breastfeeding, but also the role that access, representation, and culturally competent care play in supporting families.

In line with this commitment, Ontario International Airport (ONT), in collaboration with UCR Health, has upgraded its private, secure, and fully furnished nursing rooms in Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. These single-occupancy lactation rooms give mothers a comfortable and private place to breastfeed or pump when they travel. Each lounge is furnished with padded benches and an electrical outlet, and equipped with a changing space. Although they are not attached to restrooms, a restroom is conveniently located nearby.

Where to Find Them

• Terminal 2 – Located on the 2nd floor past TSA screening, across from Gate 207, next to the Women’s Restroom.

• Terminal 4 – Located on the 2nd floor past TSA screening, across from Gate 407, next to the Family Restroom.

Spotlight: Black Breastfeeding Week

Black Breastfeeding Week is observed August 25–31 to raise awareness among the general public about the ongoing racial disparities in breastfeeding. While 84% of U.S. infants are breastfed at birth, only 74% of Black infants begin — and by six months, fewer than 45% are still breastfed, compared to nearly 60% of white infants. The campaign was founded by Kimberly Seals Allers, Kiddada Green, and Anayah Sangodele-Ayoka and addresses the limited access to culturally competent breastfeeding support, unstable leave policies, and limited representation through mentoring, peer networking, advocacy, and storytelling.

Community Connection

This month, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, UCR Health will participate in the Celebration of Black Motherhood at the IEHP Center for Learning and Innovation - an event that is centered on creating culturally affirming spaces where Black mothers feel seen, heard, and supported.

ONT's revitalized nursing rooms share this vision: to ensure that every family, from every background, is able to access safe, comfortable, and inclusive spaces to care for their child during travel. Constructed to California Building Code and ADA standards, these lounges are part of an ongoing commitment to health equity and family-friendly travel.

Looking Ahead

Breastfeeding Awareness Month is more than just a health observance. It is a movement to ensure every family has access, representation, and support in every space. From community events like the Celebration of Black Motherhood to public spaces such as ONT’s newly remodeled nursing rooms, UCR Health is working on creating a future for every parent to feel welcomed and for every child to have the healthiest start.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With four medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.