United Way Worldwide Backs Bipartisan HELP Act to Strengthen 211 System

WASHINGTON, D.C. – April 28, 2026 – United Way Worldwide today applauded the introduction of the bipartisan Human-Services Emergency Logistics Program (HELP) Act, legislation that would strengthen and expand 211—the vital lifeline that connects millions of people to housing, food, utility assistance, and other essential services and resources in their communities during and beyond times of disaster. 

The demand for 211– the 24/7 free, confidential 3-digit service – continues to climb. According to United Way Worldwide's latest 211 Impact Survey data, 211 referrals increased to 19 million last year. Housing assistance was the most requested service, reaching an all-time high of six million annual referrals – a 150% increase over the past decade. Utilities and food assistance were the other top requests for assistance, underscoring the growing financial strain facing families nationwide.   

“In a moment of crisis, the first question should never be, ‘Where do I even begin?'" said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1). “211 matters, gives people one trusted place to turn for housing, food, utility assistance, mental health resources, disaster support, and so much more. Through my longtime partnership with United Way of Bucks County, I have seen the difference this system makes when local knowledge meets urgent need. I am grateful to United Way Worldwide for its leadership, and proud to support the HELP Act to strengthen 211 nationwide, improve coordination with 988 and 911, and make sure help is ready, trusted, and close to home.” 

“When someone in my community is having the worst day of their life, I want the person who picks up the phone to know how to help them. We know that families who need the most help have the least time to figure out where to find it. The HELP Act invests in a better system where families can make one call and get immediate answers on help with rent, the closest food bank, or a mental health professional before another difficult day becomes a full-blown crisis. I'm grateful to United Way for championing this legislation and for connecting our neighbors to those critical services every day,” said Rep. Morgan McGarvey (KY-03).

“211 is one of our country's most powerful services to help connect people to local support and resources, but it must be strengthened in this moment when more people are struggling to meet their basic needs," said Rosie Allen-Herring, Interim President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. “211 data shows that requests for housing support are at an all-time high, and requests for food and utility support are rising fast. Now more than ever, people need 211 to be strong, connected, and well-funded. The HELP Act is a smart, bipartisan investment that will help 211 reach more people in need, when they need it, where they need it." 

The HELP Act will:

• Expand and strengthen the 211 system nationwide, so it is available, reliable, and responsive in every community.
• Improve coordination between 211, 988, and 911 to better direct people to the right support more quickly and effectively.
• Support public awareness efforts to ensure more people know about and use 211.
• Require accountability and transparency for federal funding through annual reporting and evaluation.

“Nearly 80 percent of 211 centers are operated and supported by local United Ways or United Way state associations, making 211 one of the most trusted community-based systems in the country,” said Josh Dickson, Senior Vice President, Public Policy and Advocacy, United Way Worldwide. “But despite its effectiveness and growing demand, it has long been under-resourced. The HELP Act addresses that gap by strengthening coordination, investing in capacity, and helping more people access supports earlier and more effectively.” 

United Way urges Congress to pass the HELP Act and encourages supporters to contact their members of Congress and ask them to co-sponsor this important legislation by taking action through the United Way Action Center. 

About United Way Worldwide

United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our communities, United Way is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across tens of thousands of communities means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives around the world. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. To learn more, visit www.unitedway.org. 

About 211

211 is a 24/7 free, confidential service offered in 180 languages that connects individuals to resources and services in their local communities. Individuals in need or who are looking for information for someone else can call, text, email or web chat 211. 211 services are accessible to 99% of communities across the U.S. and all of Canada. For more information about 211, visit 211.org.

Media Contact: Kimberly Torguson