Help available in non-emergencies
Hot line connects callers to help agencies
But for help in non-emergency crises, there is another three-digit phone number that connects people to human services agencies, counseling and health organizations.
The United Way is promoting its 211 hot line as a way for people in crisis to cut through the maze of agencies and quickly find the help they need. Dialing 2-1-1 puts callers in touch with trained specialists who connect them with appropriate service providers throughout Missouri.The hot line is staffed 24 hours a day. All land lines can access 211, but the service is not yet available to most cell phone users. To reach the call center by cell phone, dial 800-427-4626.
Economic pressures, the housing crisis and rising fuel costs have created what some call the "new needy," said John Glenn, the United Way's vice president of resource development for St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties.
"These people have never needed help before and they have no idea where to go," Glenn said. "That is why 211 is important."
The 211 operators can help callers find food, clothing, shelter, counseling, financial assistance, medical information and crisis intervention. It also can connect callers to support groups, children's health insurance assistance, Medicaid and Medicare help, job training, transportation, child care, adult day care, child protective services, mentoring, volunteer opportunities and other services.
The Missouri Foundation of Health gave the United Way a $5 million grant to launch the hot line. Missouri is the latest of 41 states to implement the 211 program. It is one of 21 states to offer statewide coverage.
The United Way of Greater St. Louis supports 191 nonprofit agencies, including 35 with offices in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties. Its annual fundraising campaign kicked off Sept. 4 and runs through Oct. 17.
