New Website Maps Changing Table Locations for Parents on Island

URGENT UPDATE: A brand new website is transforming how parents navigate changing table options across Vancouver Island. After a frustrating experience at a restaurant without a changing table, two mothers are now mapping out facilities to ensure parents can change their little ones without unnecessary stress.

Just this week, Portia Zaffaroni faced a challenging situation when she had to change her eight-month-old son, Cosmo, on a bench outside a Victoria restaurant. “Most moms bring their own change pads and everything, but we just want a stable place to put our baby,” Zaffaroni expressed, highlighting the urgent need for accessible changing facilities.

Currently, businesses in British Columbia are not required to provide changing tables unless they are new constructions designed to accommodate over 500 people. This regulatory gap has left many parents anxious about outings with their children. In response, Rebecca Garnham, while on maternity leave, took proactive measures by creating a website that lists changing table locations across the island.

“We see many restaurants offering booster seats or kids’ menus, but not all provide changing tables, which is just as important,” Garnham stated. Her initiative, known as the Vancouver Island Change Table Finder, is now live at changetablesvancouverisland.wordpress.com and boasts 70 locations throughout Greater Victoria.

The website aims to help parents and caregivers feel confident when going out, knowing they can attend to their baby’s needs without anxiety. “The goal is to allow parents to leave the house stress-free,” Garnham added. Users can contribute to the site by adding locations, expanding the resource for all families on the island.

Local businesses are also responding to this community need. At Smor Scandinavian Bakery in Sidney, owner Leah Hayward emphasized the importance of providing changing facilities. “I decided to be the change I wanted to see and put in a change table,” she said, noting the addition of a cozy baby corner with comfortable seating for caregivers.

Parents across Vancouver Island can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that resources are being put in place to support their needs. The momentum behind this initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of family-friendly facilities in public spaces.

With the launch of this website, parents can finally enjoy outings with their children without the looming worry of diaper emergencies. This development is a significant step toward improving community support for families, allowing them to engage in social activities with greater ease.

Stay tuned for more updates as the website expands its reach and more locations are added. Parents are encouraged to visit the site to contribute their findings and help shape this vital resource.