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What
Is United Way’s 2-1-1?
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2-1-1 is the national abbreviated dialing code for free
access to health and human services information and referral
(I & R). 2-1-1 is an easy, universally-recognizable
number that makes a critical connection between individuals
and families in need and the appropriate community-based
organizations and government agencies. 2-1-1 makes it
possible for people in need to navigate the complex and
ever-growing maze of human services’ agencies and
programs. 2-1-1 is efficient, fast, and easy to use.
Benefits
of Using 2-1-1
- One
call gives you access to resources across seven counties
in New York (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan,
Ulster and Westchester). Maintenance of each county’s
information is the responsibility of the United Way in
that county.
- 2-1-1
hotline currently operates 24 hours a day, seven days
a week, with a translation service utilizing over 150
languages.
- 2-1-1
is already operational throughout NJ and CT as well as
several other states and metropolitan areas. See www.211.org
for a complete list.
- 2-1-1
is a confidential call; most often the name of the caller
is not even taken.
- 2-1-1
maintains the integrity of the 9-1-1 system/saving that
vital community resource for life and death emergencies.
- 2-1-1
is a useful planning tool. Based on aggregate data about
the types of calls that the 2-1-1 Center receives, communities
are in a better position to anticipate demand for services
and mobilize resources to meet changing needs.
- 2-1-1
touches the lives of every person in the community. Whether
you are in a situation where you need help or find yourself
able to give help, 2-1-1 is always there for you.
Why
Have 2-1-1?
Every
hour of every day, someone in the United States needs essential
services—from finding substance abuse assistance to
securing adequate care for a child or an aging parent. In
many cases, people end up going without necessary and readily
available services because they do not know where to start.
2-1-1 provides callers with information about and referrals
to human services for every day needs and in times of crisis.
For example, 2-1-1 refers these types of services:
- Basic
Human Needs Resources: food banks, clothing closets,
shelters, rent assistance.
- Physical
and Mental Health Resources: health insurance
programs Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, Children’s
Health Insurance Program, medical information lines, crisis
intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug
and alcohol intervention and rehabilitation.
- Employment
Support: financial assistance, job training,
transportation assistance, education programs.
- Support
for Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities:
adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite
care, home health care, transportation, homemaker services.
- Support
for Children, Youth, and Families: childcare,
after school programs, Head Start, family resource centers,
summer camps and recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring,
protective services.
- Volunteer
Opportunities and Donations: (possible future
use)
Benefits
As A Crisis Tool
- 2-1-1
responds immediately during times of crisis, to field
calls regarding the crisis and to direct callers to services
most appropriate for their needs.
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Once 2-1-1 is implemented, it maintains a permanent presence
in the community. As a result, people can find the help
they need, whether their needs arise a week or several
years after the crisis event.
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