February 11th (2/11) is National 211 Day – an annual observance celebrating the go-to, 24/7 three-digit (2-1-1) resource that helps millions of people in the U.S. and Canada – including those in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. The three-digit service connects information about resources and services available in our local community and is free to utilize.
Based on the latest 211 Impact Survey Data, the 2-1-1 service triaged over 20 million requests in the US and responded to more than 17,280 calls from residents of Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties that needed help for immediate or long-term challenges.
211 is a vital resource leveraged by local residents who need assistance with disaster, food, health care, mental health, insurance, stable housing, utility payment, veteran services, childcare and other related needs. Other key facts about 211:
- 211 is 24/7, free and confidential and accessible in 99 percent of communities
- 211 is offered in over 180 languages
- 211 specialists offer empathetic, non-judgmental care – and these trained specialists connect individuals and families to a range of available resources to meet their underlying needs, not just the one that prompted the call, text, or email.
“211 is an unmatched, critical, go-to service that provides connection and support to those who need help for a range of needs,” said United Way of Southwest Michigan President & CEO Anna Murphy. “During 211 Day, we aim to express appreciation to the call specialists who provide support to help our community members and celebrate this lifeline that is helping thousands here in our three county area.”
Established in 2000 by the Federal Communications Commission as the three-digit number to reach information and referral services for health, human, and social organizations, today 211 is a resource for help and hope in our communities, the State of Michigan, and across North America.
While 211 is available every day of the year, it is especially helpful during times of disaster, such as tornadoes and floods by helping to spread accurate and vetted information—while ensuring 911 calls are reserved for physical emergencies. In the past, 211 also provided integral help to the citizens of Benton Harbor during the recent water emergency.
During 211 Day, United Way of Southwest Michigan encourages residents in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties to:
- Call, text, or chat 211 if they or someone they know needs help
- Share 211 widely with their neighbors, family and friends to connect others to help and supports
- Advocate to your local policymakers for the importance of and need to strengthen 211, especially as budgets at all levels continue to undergo review. 211 is a critical lifeline used by everyone, everywhere, in the State of Michigan.
About 211
211 is a 24/7 free, confidential service offered in 180 languages that connects individuals to resources and services in their local communities by phone, text and on the web. Individuals in need or who are looking for information for someone else can call 211 from a cell phone or landline. United Way supports and provides 211 services in most communities across the U.S. For more information about 211, visit 211.org.
