WEST VIRGINIA (WVDN) – Today, Feb. 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 the State of West Virginia. The three-digit service connects information about resources and services available in one’s community.
Based on the latest 211 Impact Survey Data, 211 triaged over 20 million requests and in West Virginia, responded to 32,765 people in the community access help for immediate or long-term challenges.
211 is a vital resource leveraged by WV 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 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 or text.
“211 is an unmatched, critical, go-to service that provides connection and support to those who need help for a range of needs,” said April Knight, WV 211 State Director. “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 West Virginia.”
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 communities, like West Virginia, and across North America.
About 211
211 is a 24/7 free, confidential service that connects individuals to resources and services in their local communities by phone and text. 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.
