No matter the time of day or night – parents, seniors, veterans, caregivers, or anyone in need of assistance can dial 2-1-1 and be directed to the resources they need. February 11 is 2-1-1 Day, a reminder that help is just a phone call away, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
2-1-1 Long Island is a partnership between United Way of Long Island and Middle Country Public Library. The Call Center is staffed by trained information specialists who connect callers to critical resources such as shelter, food or utilities, as well as non-emergency services including job training, counseling, and education. Call Center services are offered in more than 200 languages. 2-1-1’s searchable online database at www.211LongIsland.org, which received nearly 275,000 visits in 2017, includes detailed information on nearly 10,000 nonprofit and governmental programs.
“Just last year, the 2-1-1 Call Center handled 11,000 calls for help – these callers may not have found the help they needed were it not for this referral service specific to our region,” stated Theresa A. Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island. “2-1-1 Long Island would not be possible without the support of our local State legislators, we are grateful that they recognize the importance of this program.”
“There are thousands of health and human services available to Long Islanders, but so many people don’t know where to start when looking to find the help they need for their specific issues,” added Elizabeth Eberhardt, United Way’s assistant vice president of community impact and 2-1-1 Long Island coordinator. “Extending the 2-1-1 Long Island Call Center hours to 24/7 is a tremendous step forward toward assisting any family or individual searching for a program that could possibly change their life for the better.”
“The Middle County Public Library is proud to partner with United Way of Long Island on the 2-1-1 initiative. It’s imperative for area residents to have access to these much needed resources in their daily lives and during times of crisis,” added Sophia Serlis-McPhillips, Director of Middle Country Public Library.
With more than 267,000 households on Long Island that fall below the ALICE** threshold budget for survival, access to these services is critical. These families are working, but struggle to afford the basic necessities like food, medication, and housing. 2-1-1 Long Island helps our neighbors navigate to the help they need, now available 24/7.
For assistance or for more information call 2-1-1 (888-774-7633) 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or visit www.211LongIsland.org.
**ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed