Urban Refuge | Devpost

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Overall Interactive Map

Inspiration

After hearing about Urban Refuge's mission, we wanted to help the organization expand and improve their website features. We noticed that they were missing a map, a feature that could crucially help refugees and displaced individuals find vital resources near them.

What it does

We decided to implement GIS (geographic information system) in a map features that integrates seamlessly with Urban Refuge's existing site. The map features points on it representing resources that can be clicked to display information about them, such as resource details, transportation, address, times (if applicable), contact information, and more.

How we built it

For the frontend, we used raw HTML for the page structure, Leaflet.js for the visual map, and jQuery for interactivity. For the backend, we used Firebase for the database and authentication. For the data extraction and cleaning, we used Python in Jupyter Notebook.

Challenges we ran into

The data was not very comprehensive, and it had a lot of noise needed to be removed. Moreover, it was difficult configuring the Firebase to work properly, as well as figuring out how to use 3rd-party authentications.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We managed to create a complete application that address an actual issue for people recently experienced displacement or crises. It also helps to promote local resources for refugees, for whom the online resources are not plentiful.

What we learned

We learned to properly process data with Jupyter Notebook. Moreover, we learned to use Leaflet.js for pretty interactive maps. Finally, we were able to learn about Firebase and 3rd-party authentications

What's next for Urban Refuge

A feature planned for the future is having people propose new refugee resources and comment on the resources so that they are always being updated, added, and reviewed for their helpfulness or usefulness. Furthermore, as Urban Refuge expands, our map feature, which is implemented globally, will be able to keep up with growing need and be able to incorporate resources from around the world.