Crisis/Energy Assistance & LIHWAP


Operation Threshold offers both Crisis Assistance and Energy Assistance programming. 

We are currently ACCEPTING applications for Crisis Assistance

As of July 20, 2023 we DO NOT have funds for the Low Income Home Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP).

To apply for Crisis Assistance you can: 
* Click here for an application
* Email OT staff and request an application: [email protected]
* Call our offices and request an application: 319-291-2065

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program is designed to assist low-income families meet the cost of home heating. LIHEAP supplements the high cost of winter heating for low-income households, provides emergency furnace repairs or replacement for income-qualifying homeowners and offers assistance with telephone costs to those that qualify.
           Applications taken: November 1st – April 30th for the general public, 
           however households with seniors or persons with a disabled person
           can apply each year starting October 1st. Click here for more
           application information.
           Income Guidelines: 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline (click here to see most current income guidelines.) 

Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) – This program helps eligible households pay past due water bills and reconnection fees. To be eligible households must have income at or below 200% of the poverty level (see LIHEAP income limits above). In addition, eligible households must have a disconnect notice, delinquent notice, or be unable to make a pay agreement. Eligible households must contain a U.S. Citizen or legal resident and their water company must have agreed to participate in the LIHWAP program. 

Crisis Assistance – On a limited basis, Operation Threshold provides financial assistance to households facing crisis situations such as utility disconnection, emergency fuel deliveries, and furnace repair/replacement. Operation Threshold also offers a crisis assistance program called Pocket Change. The Pocket Change program is available to assist eligible households with emergency expenses related to work or school attendance or other unusual crises. 
           Applications taken: Please see above. Normally, applications are taken
           throughout the year, however assistance will depend upon funding
           the agency has available.          

           Income Guidelines: 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline (click here to see most current income guidelines.) 

Currently we are not taking Pocket Change applications. Please call us at (319) 291-2065 or email us at [email protected] to find out more. 
           Other Information: 
                      *Pocket Change Guidelines