United Way spreads the word about 211 helpline
NORTH ALABAMA (WHNT) – Some people in Madison County may not know that there’s a phone number you can call to get help with a variety of issues, such as housing, food relief, utilities and transportation.
The United Way of Madison County (UWMC) and Crisis Services of North Alabama run the 211 helpline.
Cathy Miller with UWMC said that 211 can help you, a loved one or a neighbor who is in need.
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“Just remembering those three simple numbers [211] is a real lifeline for folks that anybody can own and share and make the community a better place,” Miller explained.
Miller told a story about a recent, potentially life-saving interaction with 211. A young man’s sister came home from school and was upset. She said a friend of hers had been abused.
The young man knew about 211, so they called. The call specialist connected the friend to the National Children’s Advocacy Center for help.
Miller said that is exactly what the service is intended for.
“It could be as easy as newcomers coming in and having a senior in their family wondering about Senior Services, or maybe somebody that has a child or an adult with disabilities because we see that being navigated all the time,” Miller said. “If you don’t know where those resources are, you could think there are none, and 211 is the source.”
There are several ways to connect with 211, in addition to simply calling 211 from a cell phone or landline.
Call 211 or 888-421-1266
Search through topics or chat with a 211 call specialist on the website by clicking here
Email 211 call specialists directly at [email protected]
Contact 211 via Facebook by clicking here
Text your ZIP code to TXT-211
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