What is Nest?

The Nest program is an incentive based program for income-eligible pregnant women, post-partum mothers, and their children up to 5 years of age. Participants can earn incentive points for healthy behaviors such as keeping doctor appointments and attending parent and preventative educational classes. The points are then redeemed for incentive items ranging from diapers, wipes, bathing supplies, baby clothes, car seats and educational books. 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.

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 Marissa Christensen.

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.