Tricia Wilkins, chief executive officer of Northeast Iowa Community Action, presented the agency’s annual program report and formally requested county funding support of $35,003.

Wilkins said the agency serves a seven-county region and relies largely on federal funding (about 74% of its budget). In Chickasaw County specifically, she told the board the agency served 817 individuals and provided nearly $257,000 in assistance during the most recent program year.

Wilkins outlined the programs tied to the request. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helped 262 Chickasaw County households this past year with roughly $43,800 in payments; the typical payment for eligible families was between $450 and $500 per winter season. Weatherization work completed in the county served eight households at a cost of just over $95,000, she said. The agency’s local crisis assistance program provided 55 payments totaling nearly $18,000 for emergency needs such as food, utilities, rent or car repairs.

Wilkins also described a Head Start classroom in Chickasaw County that served 24 students and noted the agency operates regional public transit and low-income housing programs. She emphasized the economic ripple effects of the agency’s spending on local vendors and services.

Board members asked several clarifying questions about local city funding and whether other municipalities (notably New Hampton) contribute; Wilkins said she would provide additional detail on city contributions upon request. The board did not take an immediate vote on the request; Wilkins’ presentation will be part of upcoming budget discussions and department presentations scheduled in January.