211
United Way supports 211, a free and confidential service that helps people across North America find the local resources they need 24/7.
Donate to Ride United
Your generous contribution will provide someone with a free ride to a job interview or chemotherapy appointment, or help deliver groceries from a food bank to someone in need.
Donate211 is the most comprehensive source of information about local resources and services in the country. It’s powered by people: thousands of caring, local experts are available to help, 24/7. Calls to 211 are confidential and can be anonymous.
The 211 network in the United States responds to more than 20 million requests for help every year. Most calls, web chats, and text messages are from people looking for help meeting basic needs like housing, food, transportation, and health care. 211 can be accessed by phone or computer, at 211.org. A toll-free call to 211 connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services. You’ll find information about:
- supplemental food and nutrition programs
- shelter and housing options and utilities assistance
- emergency information and disaster relief
- employment and education opportunities
- services for veterans
- health care, vaccination and health epidemic information
- addiction prevention and rehabilitation programs
- reentry help for ex-offenders
- support groups for individuals with mental illnesses or special needs
- a safe, confidential path out of physical and/or emotional domestic abuse
Across the U.S. and Canada, 211 has made a difference during COVID-19. Whether it’s providing reliable information about the pandemic, testing or vaccination sites, or helping people stay in their homes, put food on the table and pay bills – 211 has been a lifesaver for millions over the last 18 months. The 211 network made 27.8 million connections to critical services and help last year, up nearly 100% from 2019. And call specialists have fielded a 150% increase in connections to food programs . All of that is an indicator of how vital a strong 211 is to strong, resilient communities.
“Guiding Light:” 211 Public Service Advertising Campaign
In mid-July 2021, United Way Worldwide helped launch a 211 public service advertising campaign, aiming to connect more people in need to local available resources through 211.
We know COVID-19 recovery and rebuilding will continue for some time. Many people are still struggling, and don’t know about local resources that could ease their hardships. That’s why United Way is so appreciative of the Rockefeller Foundation for underwriting the 211 PSA campaign, called “Guiding Light, ”and thankful for the work the Ad Council and Walton Isaacson have done to bring it to life.
Advertising in English and Spanish will run on digital and social channels (banners, mobile & social graphics), radio, video (broadcast, streaming & online) as well as print & out-of-home (billboards, bus stops, metro stations).
To view the English broadcast advertising, click here (for :60 PSA), or here (for :30). To view the Spanish :60 version, click here, or here for the :30 version.
To learn more about 211, go to 211.org.
Partners
For information about 211, or to discuss a partnership, please contact the 211 team at 211@uww.unitedway.org.