9-1-1, 4-1-1, and now 2-1-1

The 2-1-1 network is now fully established in Missouri. Our local area was the last to go live. If you haven't heard of 2-1-1, it's a phone number you can call in over 30 states and the District of Columbia to find out about various social services that are available. What type of services? The following is from their FAQ:

While services that are offered through 2-1-1 vary from community to community, 2-1-1 provides callers with information about and referrals to human services for every day needs and in times of crisis. For example, 2-1-1 can offer access to the following types of services:

• Basic Human Needs Resource: food banks, clothing, shelters, rent assistance, utility assistance.
• Physical and Mental Health Resources: medical information lines, crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, rehabilitation, health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, children’s health insurance programs.
• Employment Support: unemployment benefits, financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs.
• Support for Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities: home health care, adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, transportation, and homemaker services.
• Support for Children, Youth and Families: Quality childcare, Success by 6, after school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps and recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring, protective services.
• Volunteer opportunities and donations.

It is sponsored by the United Way, but I don't hold that against them (long story). Check if 2-1-1 is available in your area. If you don't need it, chances are you know or will know someone who does. And if your church or organization provides social services make sure you provide up to date information to 2-1-1 to help get the word out.

Remember: 9-1-1 for emergencies, 4-1-1 for information, and 2-1-1 for help.