WIC is the federal Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. That means Sperry’s job is to ensure pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women with low incomes, as well as their young children, have access to food and healthcare.
Sperry has served in that role at the Wasatch County Health Department for 18 years, connecting families to health education, money for food and other support.
Now, she’s received the Outstanding Public Health Professional Award from the Utah Association of Local Boards of Health.
In a press release, county communications director Joan Gould said Sperry is known for getting out into the community to spread the word about WIC benefits. She sets up “baby stations” for new parents at community events and church gatherings, and she’s worked with grocery stores to make it easier for people to access services.
Sperry is also learning Spanish so she can communicate with more county residents.
“She is known for her compassion, professionalism, and commitment to serving others,” Gould said.
Pregnant women, new mothers and their children are eligible for WIC services if the mother’s income falls below a certain threshold. Amounts vary based on the number of people in the household. Any county resident can qualify for WIC, regardless of immigration status.
To learn more about the income limits and how to access WIC benefits in Wasatch County, visit the health department website.
