2-1-1: A Vital Service for Help

Everyone knows about 9-1-1. But few people know about 211, the nationwide service for non-emergency life challenges. Right now as more people need help during this global crisis, they might not know where to turn. The answer is 211.

These three numbers can offer a lot of help. During this global crisis, 211 has responded to thousands of calls, texts and emails and provided help that people in our community need.

It’s all because when people contact 211 they get caring, expert help. The real people—trained 211 specialists—on the other end of the 24/7 hotline identify the root causes of a client’s problems and connect them to local resources such as:

  • Housing

  • Food

  • Medical and mental health care

  • Job training

  • Child care 

  • Legal assistance

  • Addiction treatment

  • Disaster recovery

  • Transportation

  • Financial coaching

  • Disability resources

  • Veterans services

  • Volunteer opportunities

  • More

211, funded in part by North Texas Area United Way, fielded more than 11 million calls across the country in 2018, as well as almost 1 million texts, chats, and emails, plus another 13 million web searches. That adds up to tens of millions of lives changed through this vital national service.

If you need help, please reach out to 211.