211 Service in the USA

[Guest guest]

Bennie I have never heard of 211? kinda scared to dial it. Chris

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Moderator's Note: Not to worry Chris. I helped set up the 211 service for

where I live. In many places in North America it used to be named " First Call

for Help. " It is simply a data base for referral to agencies that may be of

help to the caller. In the USA, there are many places that do not have this

service yet, but we're working on it.

For example, in my area, if you needed a wheelchair, but couldn't afford one,

you'd call 211 and tell them what your problem is. They would search their

database for local agencies that might be able to help you. Or if you had no

idea who to phone to get help with perhaps paying a utility bill that you just

couldn't pay - you'd call 211 and ask which places might help you with either

payment or with getting the utility company to listen to you.

http://www.211.org/

It is a national program in the US, but it serves local areas. Many counties do

not have the service available yet, but it is slowly coming together. The 211

phones and databases are housed in various non profit agencies throughout the

country. There's nothing scary about them at all.

Hope that clears that up for you.

-

Lyndi

Real Life 211 Ambassador