Dial 211

There is another service akin to 411 and 911 in the US. The Federal Communications Commission reserved the 211 dialing code for community information and referral services. It intended the code as an easy-to-remember and universally recognizable number that would enable a critical connection between individuals and families in need and the appropriate community-based organizations and government agencies. Currently, active 211 systems cover all or part of 50 states.

Calling 211 provides the following resources:
    Basic Human Needs Resources – including food and clothing, shelters, housing, utility assistance.
    Disaster Response and Recovery – works with the emergency management team during a disaster to offer support and place for dissemination of information.
    Mental Health and Health Resources – including counseling, support groups, drug and alcohol treatment, health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health resources, health insurance programs for children, medical information lines, clinics, and hospitals.
    Employment Support – including job training, employment services, transportation assistance, and education programs.
    Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities – including adult day care, community meals, respite care, home health care, transportation and homemaker services.
    Children, Youth and Family Support – including child care, after school programs, educational programs for low income families, family resource centers, and recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring and protective services.
    Volunteer Opportunities and Donations – Individuals who wish to donate time, goods or money to community organizations.