2-1-1 is an easy to remember phone number that connects individuals with resources in their community. With approximately 1.5 million nonprofit organizations in the United States, plus scores of government agencies, finding help can be confusing and intimidating. People who want to give help often do not know where to begin. 2-1-1 centers are staffed by trained specialists who quickly assess the callers’ needs and refer them to the help they seek. It’s simple to remember, accessible to everyone at no cost, available 24/7, with multilingual capabilities.

Extending 2-1-1 service to all Merced County residents, to all Californians, and ultimately to all Americans is a priority of United Way organizations across the country. At this time United Way of Merced County is bringing State and local officials together to discuss and evaluate the 2-1-1 process for Merced County.

2-1-1 enables people to get help or give help. 2-1-1 offers information on a broad range of services, including rent assistance, food banks, affordable housing, health resources, child care, after-school programs, elderly care, financial literacy, and job training programs. Specialists at 2-1-1 centers facilitate thousands of volunteer hours and direct material donors to locations where their gifts may be most needed and appropriate.

As we are in the discussion stages – it might be worthwhile reading about the 2-1-1 system and the organizations that are supporting it:

www.211.org

www.cairs.org

www.airs.org