Do you need community resources but don’t know where to turn? Do you have questions like: “My electricity is going to be disconnected soon, who can help me?” “My daughter is in need of counseling, where do I call?” “I am cleaning out my mother’s house and have items to donate, who can take them?”
United Way’s 2-1-1 information and referral line receives thousands of calls like these every day. By using a database of local, statewide and national community agencies, 2-1-1 is able to answer questions regarding housing, food pantries, utility assistance, employment, education, alcohol and drug addiction services, mental health services, counseling services and much more. It is a great resource for the community to use. Each and every caller is provided assistance by connecting them with the appropriate resource(s).
United Way’s 2-1-1 is one of seven call centers in the state that covers fourteen out of 72 counties. In 2017, this call center answered over 3,500 calls for the fourteen counties alone. Fortunately, 2-1-1 is always available, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. It is confidential, completely free to use and is available nationwide. Almost every state in the country has 2-1-1, so you can get help no matter where you are.
United Way’s 2-1-1 can also be used in times of natural disasters. They partner with local emergency management offices and help field phone calls and give out information to those affected by the disaster. This has been done in times of a devastating tornado and with recent flooding.
2-1-1 is always looking for agencies that help people in local communities. If you are part of an agency that helps others please contact us so we can see about adding you to the database. 2-1-1 lists non-profit agencies, churches that offer help to the public and for-profit agencies that offer a sliding fee scale for their services.
Remember, United Way’s 2-1-1 is always available and can help in a lot of different situations. Give them a call when you are looking for community resources in your area; 2-1-1 is ready to help.
Submitted by: Amy Fluno, United Way's 2-1-1 Program Director
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Last Update: Dec 18, 2018 8:18 am CST
