Untitled Page

2-1-1: Changing Systems, Changing Lives

What is 2-1-1?

An easy-to-remember phone number for people to call for health and human service information and referrals and other assistance to meet their needs.
2-1-1 already reaches 192 million people in the U.S. – 65% of the population. In many communities the information about services is also available through a searchable online database.
There are 209 active 2-1-1 systems covering all or part of 41 states (including 17 states with 100% coverage) plus Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. Canada has an additional 5 locations.
2-1-1 is standards-driven: All 2-1-1 call centers must meet the quality assurance standards of the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS). These standards include training, quality assurance procedures, effective management practices, and program evaluation.

Why is it important?

2-1-1 is an integrated system that provides simple access to the variety of essential services people need to lead healthier, more productive lives.
2-1-1 provides real-time tracking of community needs, allowing policy makers and funders to make informed decisions about resource allocation.
2-1-1 builds community by connecting people with the programs and agencies who can put their donations and volunteer time to good use.

Who supports 2-1-1?

United Way of America and the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems are leading the effort to develop a nationwide, integrated 2-1-1 system.
In Washington State, the Legislature designated the Washington Information Network 2-1-1 (WIN 211) as the lead organization to plan, develop, implement and support a 2-1-1 network.

2-1-1 supports effective emergency response

2-1-1 can take calls from volunteers or people who want to make donations during a crisis, allowing first responders like the Red Cross and Salvation Army to focus on the relief effort.
In the aftermath of 9/11 the Connecticut 2-1-1 call center aided the immediate response effort and continues to take calls for families and survivors who need support two years after the tragedy.
2-1-1 call centers are linking together to create a redundant system – if one call center goes down, others will be online to provide unbroken access to accurate information to anyone who needs it.

How can you help?

In September 2003, Senators Elizabeth Dole and Hillary Clinton introduced the “Calling for 2-1-1 Act” to provide ongoing federal funding for 2-1-1. Federal funding is key to sustainable 2-1-1 service. Please contact your Senators and Congressional representatives and ask them to support Senate Bill S 211 and House Bill HR896. More about the legislation

Learn more