Our Services: 2-1-1

What Is United Way’s 2-1-1?

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. This Information may also be accessed by cellphones or phone/cable/internet package by the toll free number which is 1-800-899-1497.

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.
Hours of 2-1-1 hotline are currently 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., 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.
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.

Our Services: 2-1-1

2-1-1 Information System

Project Care