State Senator Judy Schwank Visits Reading WIC Nutrition Center

Jean Holmgren
November 5, 2021
State Senator Judy Schwank Visits Reading WIC Nutrition Center Featured Image

State Senator Judy Schwank toured the Berks County WIC Nutrition Center in Reading this week, where she was able to meet with the staff and learn more about the services provided by WIC and the essential role the program plays in protecting the health and nutritional status of at-risk women, children, and families in Berks County.

“The nutrition education, breastfeeding support, referrals, and access to healthy food provided by WIC has become even more critical for families during the pandemic,” said MFHS President and CEO Maria Montoro Edwards, “WIC continues to serve families in need throughout the national public health emergency, utilizing flexible service delivery options to minimize contact and safely deliver this public health program during these challenging times.” 

Over 8,000 women, infants and children are enrolled in WIC Berks County.  WIC provides families with:

  • eWIC benefits to purchase nutritious foods that support proper growth and development for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5.
  • Nutrition education to help new parents build a strong nutritional foundation for their families, and help children develop healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
  • Breastfeeding support to help new mothers have a successful breastfeeding experience.
  • Farmer’s market vouchers to purchase fresh, local produce.
  • Referrals to health care and social services to help families stay connected to prenatal and pediatric medical care, community services, and programs that help families stay healthy and strong.

Pennsylvania WIC is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).  This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

For more information about the WIC Nutrition Program, visit www.mfhs.org or call 1-800-367-6347.

Pictured left to right in the photo: Corina Moser, MFHS District Manager; Maria Montoro Edwards, MFHS President & CEO; State Senator Judy Schwank; Shannon Hayward, MFHS Vice President of Service Delivery Operations; Midge Smithburg, MFHS Quality Manager.