United Way 211 Day
National 2-1-1 Day, celebrated on February 11th (2/11) each year, recognizes our than 200, 2-1-1’s located throughout the country. 2-1-1 is a free, confidential information and referral service that connects more than 93 percent of our nation to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is an integral part of the community safety-net and can be easily accessed online of over the phone.
INDIVIDUALS / FAMILIES
In Southwest Alabama, through a UWSWA partnership with Lifelines Counseling Services, trained call specialists provide individuals and families in our community access to services including: job training, navigating veterans’ affairs, paying an utility bill, finding housing, food pantry options, and emergency, and crisis assistance.
By dialing 211 or 251.431.5111, anyone in Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile, or Washington counties can access help. In 2019, 2-1-1 specialists received 9,197 calls. They provided 8,406 referrals to local agencies and followed up with 1,978 callers in crisis
FIRST RESPONDERS / HEALTH PROFESSIONALS / GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
United Way 2-1-1 is also an important resource for first responders, health professionals, government agencies, and local leaders. Through 2-1-1, providers can direct individuals and families in need to local services. A fire fighter can refer a family that has lost their home to 2-1-1 for immediate disaster services. An ER Nurse can refer a patient that needs help filling lifesaving prescriptions. Law enforcement can refer a crime victim for counseling services.
In addition, 2-1-1 maintains extensive records of the needs for services. This can help leaders develop short term and long term plans for services in order to meet the changing needs in the community.
DISASTER SERVICES
United Way 2-1-1 is essential during a disaster. In the event of a hurricane, another type of natural disaster or man made disaster, 2-1-1 is able to refer community members to the agencies providing immediate and long range recovery assistance. Together with Volunteer Connect, 2-1-1 will also connect individuals and groups looking for opportunities to volunteer with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) working with the response and recovery effort that need volunteers.
Download a flyer with the services that are available through United Way 211.