2-1-1 Reminder

[Guest guest]

Just heard on the news that Massachusetts is the latest state that is

now operational with the 2-1-1 Call Center... So here's a reminder

about it:

" 2-1-1 is an easy to remember telephone number that, where available,

connects people with important community services and volunteer

opportunities. The implementation of 2-1-1 is being spearheaded by

United Ways and comprehensive and specialized information and

referral agencies in states and local communities. United Way of

America (UWA) and the Alliance for Information and Referral Systems

(AIRS) strongly support federal funding so that every American has

access to this essential service. "

" While services that are offered through 2-1-1 vary from community to

community, 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 can offer access to the following types of

services:

* Basic Human Needs Resource: food banks, clothing closets, shelters,

rent assistance, utility 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 Supports: 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. "

See if your state is now operational:

http://www.211.org/status.html