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211 provides a free, easy
to use, comprehensive information and referral system which
links people in need with appropriate health and human
service resources.
211 Defined: Thousands of
individuals and families search everyday for financial
assistance, food or shelter. Individuals looking for help
can spend precious time calling numerous organizations and
be passed through a confusing maze of agencies and services
before finding the right one. By making services easier to
access, 211 encourages prevention and fosters
self-sufficiency.
The 211 Idea: Much like dialing
a three-digit number for directory assistance or emergency
help. 211 is a universal number and a free call that
creates a critical connection between an individual in need
and the appropriate human-service resources. By dialing
211, individuals can also be matched with volunteer and
donor opportunities.
Every hour of every day, someone in
East Tennessee needs help and does not know where to turn.
Many times, the help they need is readily available but,
because there are so many different agencies and
organizations that help may be difficult to find. Finding
help is so difficult, in fact, that the average person calls
eight phone numbers before they reach the correct agency or
organization for them. Because of this confusing maze of
organizations, many people never receive the help they need.
That’s where 211 comes in. 211 is a
free, easy-to-remember number that enables individuals to
locate social services or volunteer opportunities with only
one call. 211 is available Monday through Friday, 8 am – 8
pm, and every call is completely confidential.
211 offers access to services such as:
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Basic needs resources (food, clothing, and
shelter)
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Physical and mental health resources
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Employment support
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Support for children, families, or the elderly
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Support for people with disabilities
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Volunteer and donation opportunities
Most cell phone providers now allow you
to direct dial 211 from your cell phone using minutes in
your calling plan.
The United Way and the Alliance of
Information and Referral System (AIRS) are working in
partnership to accelerate the nationwide rollout of 211
services, but much is left to do to create a viable system
that is easily accessible to everyone in America, regardless
of their geographic location.
211 Website:
www.211easttn.org
Mailing
Address:
P. O. Box 33002
Knoxville, TN 37930-3002
Email:
contact@211easttn.org
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