211

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Every day thousands of people across North America turn to 211 for information and support—whether financial, domestic, health or disaster-related. 211 is a free, confidential referral and information helpline and website that connects people of all ages and from all communities to the essential health and human services they need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

211 can be accessed by phone or computer. 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 that can improve—and save—lives.

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

Whether in times of natural disaster or personal crisis, 211 is committed to being the first, most essential resource to anyone who needs help.

Call 211 and speak with a live, highly trained service professional in your area from any cell phone or landline. All calls are private and confidential. 

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The Latest

United Way Launches Coalition to Help Those Impacted By Government Shutdown 
United Way will lead the 'United for U.S.' coalition, a joint effort by corporate partners, organized labor, the United Way network and nonprofits to provide assistance with housing payments, utility bills and groceries. 
Jan. 11, 2019

Local charities helping furloughed workers during government shutdown
As the government shutdown enters its 20th day, the effects are starting to be felt by the 420,000 federal employees working without pay and the 380,000 federal employees who have been furloughed. On January 10, thousands of federal employees missed their first paychecks of 2019. Learn more. 
WUSA 9
Jan. 10, 2019

Lyft is teaming up with nonprofits to get people in need where they need to go
If you can’t afford a car or access public transit, how can you make crucial appointments like doctor’s visits or job interviews? United Way is helping, with an assist from Lyft. 
Fast Company
Dec. 19, 2018

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Partners

Transportation is one of the highest unmet needs for 211 callers across the U.S. In 2018, United Way launched a partnership with Lyft, the fastest growing rideshare company in the U.S., to provide a limited number of rides to people with specific healthcare, employment and veterans’ transportation needs. 211 specialists in select U.S. cities book Lyft rides to callers in need.

For more information on this project, please contact your local 211 by dialing 211 or search for local contact information at 211.org. 

For media inquiries, please contact pr@unitedway.org.

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For information about 211, or to discuss a partnership, please contact the 211 team at 211@uww.unitedway.org.