When you need info, you you gonna call? 211

Last week, United Way of Randolph County shared information about who to call when you’re looking for information in the community. 

Maybe it’s about housing, food, utility payment assistance. Whatever the question about resources, NC 211 is a good place to start. 

Here’s what you can expect when you make the call or the lookup online.

What is NC 211?

 NC 211 is an information and referral service provided by United Way of North Carolina and supported by local United Ways and public and private partners. Accessible via an easy-to-remember three-digit number or by visiting  nc211.org, families and individuals can obtain free and confidential information on health and human services and resources in their community.

When can I call NC 211? 

 NC 211 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year by dialing 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162.

Is NC 211 statewide?

 NC 211 is available by landline, cell phone and VOIP in all 100 counties of North Carolina.

Is 211 available in languages other than English?

 NC 211 has Spanish language call specialists on staff and also utilizes professional language interpretation services to assist callers in over 170 languages.

What information is available by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting nc211.org?

 NC 211 maintains a robust database with information on more than 19,000 human service programs and services in North Carolina. Callers are referred to organizations in their local community and surrounding areas that are best equipped to address their specific needs, including food, shelter, energy assistance, housing, parenting resources, healthcare, substance abuse, specific resources for older adults and people with disabilities, and much more.

 When an individual dials 2-1-1, a trained call specialist conducts a search based on the caller’s location to identify resources that meet the caller’s needs. In addition to contact information for the resource, call specialists provide eligibility requirements, intake process information, hours of operation, any requirements for appointments, and accessibility information, when available.

Does the online search tool at nc211.org provide the same information as dialing 2-1-1?

 The online database is the same database used by the call specialists; however, NC 211 call specialists are trained to search using specific keywords which may provide more resources than found through self-search. Individuals who don’t find what they need through the online search tool are highly encouraged to dial 2-1-1 to speak to a call specialist.

How can I learn more about NC 211?

 Dial 2-1-1 or visit www.nc211.org to learn more about NC 211.