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2-1-1: Connecting Ohioans to the Information They Need

November 2006

Have you ever found yourself searching through the phonebook, trying to find a number that will possibly connect you with a person who might be able to answer your question? Wouldn't it be nice if you could make one call and access a wealth of local services, information and volunteer opportunities?

For years, you've been able to dial 9-1-1 for emergency services, and 4-1-1 for directory assistance. Now, most Ohioans can dial 2-1-1 for information and referral services.

Social services in Ohio are vast, as is the number of agencies and help-lines available. It is hard to know where to turn for help. In many cases, people go without necessary services because they do not know where to start. 2-1-1 helps people find and give help.

While it varies from community to community, 2-1-1 provides callers with information about, and referrals to, human services for everyday needs, as well as in times of crisis. Services commonly available through 2-1-1 include:

• Basic Human Needs: food banks, clothing closets, shelters, rent assistance and utility assistance
• Physical and Mental Health: health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, medical information lines, crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling and drug and alcohol intervention and rehabilitation
• Employment Supports: financial assistance, education programs, job training and transportation assistance
• Support for Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities: adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, home health care, transportation and homemaker services
• Support for Children, Youth and Families: childcare, after school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps, recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring and protective services
• Volunteer Opportunities and Donations

More than two-thirds of the state can dial 2-1-1 already and the Ohio Council of Information & Referral Providers, through the 2-1-1 Ohio Collaborative, are leading the effort to implement the service statewide. Nationwide, 2-1-1 serves approximately 190 million Americans - more than 65 percent of the US population. There are 206 active 2-1-1 systems covering all or part of 41 states (including 17 states with total coverage), plus Washington, DC and Puerto Rico.

A study commissioned by the United Way assessed the expected costs and anticipated benefits of a nationwide 2-1-1 system. The study concluded that 2-1-1 would ultimately provide American taxpayers up to $1.1 billion in net value over the next 10 years. It also found that when folks seek information or referral services for which they have little or no prior knowledge or experience, dialing 2-1-1 is much simpler than other options.

One number to call to get information about community services ensures that callers are directed to the appropriate agency and reduces the frustration of making multiple calls. 2-1-1 also reduces inappropriate 9-1-1 calls.

It is a free 24-hour service, so you get the help you need when you need it. To learn if 2-1-1 is available in your community log-on to www.211ohio.net.