Stork's Nest

The Stork's Nest program is an incentive based program for income-eligible pregnant women, post-partum mothers up to one-year, and their children up to thirteen months. Participants 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, cribs, car seats and educational books. For a complete incentive list, click here. Participants must be residents of/or receive health care services in 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 the Stork’s Nest by maintaining good health habits and participating in Stork’s Nest approved educational programs.

Car Seats
A car seat safety video will be shown the first Wednesday of each month at 4:00pm at Operation Threshold, 405 Chestnut St., Waterloo. No appointment is necessary. You can also schedule an appointment to view the video. You MUST view this video to purchase a car seat. *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 Stork's 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 Stork's Nest, please contact Andrea Magee at amagee@operationthreshold.org. Stork's 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 & 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 Andrea Magee at amagee@operationthreshold.org.

If you would like more information about the Stork's Nest program, such as how to enroll, help with income guidelines, or to volunteer, please call the Stork's Nest Coordinator at (319) 291-2065.