JUST WHAT IS 2-1-1?
By Lynn Anderson
Johnson County Human Services
Q: I’ve heard people mention a new “2-1-1” phone number that works
something like 9-1-1. What is it?”
A: United Way 2-1-1 of Kansas is an easy-to-remember telephone number that
connects people with important community services and volunteer
opportunities. It can be an important number for older adults to remember.
Statewide service will be provided initially from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday, but ultimately it will provide service 24 hours a
day, seven days a week.
2-1-1 is a toll-free number that will offer many benefits to Kansans. It’s
an easy way to receive help or give help as a volunteer. One call gives
people access to thousands of community resources. And all calls are
confidential and free.
The phone number has benefits as a crisis tool. During and after a community
crisis such as a tornado or flood,
2-1-1 is a ready-to-use number. There is no need to wait for an information
system to be set up. One call can connect people to needed human services
during a crisis. One call also quickly connects volunteers to local needs in
a crisis. Since 2-1-1 is a permanent number, people can find help whether
their needs arise a week or several months after a crisis.
2-1-1 will help callers find resources such as these:
• Resources for basic human needs: food banks, clothing closets, shelters,
rent assistance, utility assistance
• Support for older individuals and persons with disabilities: adult day
care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, home health care,
transportation
• Physical and mental health resources: health insurance programs, Medicaid
and Medicare, maternal health, crisis intervention, support groups
• Employment services: financial assistance, job training, transportation
assistance, education programs
• Support for children, youth, and families: child care, after-school
programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps, recreation
programs
The 2-1-1 system also helps maintain the integrity of the 9-1-1 system,
saving that vital community service for life-and-death emergencies.
For more information about the 2-1-1 program, visit
www.211kansas.org .
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Human Services
11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite #1300
Olathe, KS 66061-7056
(913) 715-8800 : voice
(913) 715-8825 : fax
(913) 894-8822 : TTY