What is Nest?

The Nest program is an incentive based program for income-eligible pregnant women, post-partum mothers, and their children up to 4 years of age. Participants who are pregnant and/or have infants under 13 months can earn incentive points for healthy behaviors such as keeping doctor appointments and attending parent and preventative educational classes. Parents with children over 13 months can earn points by attending Nest parent education classes.  The points are then redeemed for incentive items ranging from diapers, wipes, bathing supplies, baby clothes, car seats and educational books.  For a complete incentive list, click here. Participants must be residents of Black Hawk County.  Participants are income-eligible if their income is at or below 185% of the Federal poverty level.  Once in the program, participants can continue to earn points to be redeemed at  Nest by maintaining good health habits and participating in Nest approved parent educational programs.

Car Seats
A car seat safety class is held quarterly at Operation Threshold, 1535 Lafayette St., Waterloo.  You MUST attend this class in order to purchase a car seat with incentive points.   *In order to purchase a car seat, you must be at least six months pregnant.*

Garage Sales
Periodically we hold garage sales at Operation Threshold.  This is a great way to redeem points and purchase bargains.  If you have gently used baby items you would like to donate to the Nest, please let us know.  We CANNOT take used car seats, cribs, playpens, pack, and plays, changing tables, high chairs, walkers or other baby furniture.  Please clean all items prior to drop off.  Thank you in advance for your diligence in sorting and removing stained and/or ripped clothing.

Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in volunteering for the Nest, please contact Lisa Wetzel.  Nest participants who volunteer earn 25 points per hour of service.

Pregnant Moms
If you are interested in breastfeeding, contact the  Waterloo WIC Department to find out how you can participate in the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program.  This is a free, supportive service designed to help make breastfeeding easier.

Donations and Drives
Donations of new and gently used items can be dropped off at Operation Threshold.  We do not accept used car seats.  We accept checks, money orders and cash. Please do not send cash in the mail. Operation Threshold is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt nonprofit. Your donations to the agency are tax deductible.

Want to help?  Consider scheduling a Community Baby Shower at your church, school, store or organization. Community Baby Showers collect donated incentive items for participants and their babies. To schedule a Community Baby Shower, please contact Lisa Wetzel.

If you would like more information about the Nest program, such as how to enroll,  help with income guidelines, or to volunteer, please call the Nest Coordinator at (319) 292-1805.