Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is an Information and Referral Service?
A. Information and referral (I&R) services link people seeking assistance in health and human services with the appropriate nonprofit and government providers of such services.Facts about I&R:
- I&R services across the United States answer over 50 million calls annually.
- I&R specialists assess callers' needs and determine the service provider best equipped to help them solve their problems or crises.
- I&R specialists are trained to determine whether a caller may be eligible for other programs.
- I&R specialists maintain a comprehensive databases of resources, including federal, state and local government agencies, community-based organizations and private non-profits.
Q. Where is 211?
A. United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta launched the first 211 service in 1997. As of February 2005, 37% of the United States population has access to 211 service. To find a current list of where 211 is available, log onto www.211.org.
Q. How is 211 different from 411?
A. You dial 411 for general information that you might find in the phone book. 211 is specific to health and human services or volunteering. If you are not sure of the name of volunteer program, a human service agency, or need current contact information for them, it is appropriate to call 211.
Every hour someone needs essential services, from finding a substance abuse assistance to securing adequate care for a child or an aging parent. With over 2,000 private non-profit and public health and human service programs in the State of Utah, it can be difficult for people to know where to turn for help. Many people go without the necessary and available services because they do not know where to turn for help. 211 connects callers with human services for every-day needs and in times of crisis.
211 can help you access resources for:
- Basic Human Needs: food banks, clothing , shelters
- Physical and Mental Health: support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention and rehabilitation
- Employment: job training, education programs, employment counseling
- Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities: adult day care, Meals on Wheels, respite care, home health care
- Children, Youth, and Families: Head Start, mentoring, tutoring, protective services
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Donations to appropriate programs
- And much more
- Assess your situation
- Prioritize your needs
- Make a referral to help you find the appropriate service
- 211 uses an interpreting service that allows specialists to answer calls in up to 150 languages.
- Callers are encouraged to call back if they encounter difficulties accessing a service. All calls are confidential.
Q. What if I want to volunteer?
A. The I&R specialists will ask questions to help you find the most appropriate volunteer opportunity for you or your group, and may refer you to our website for additional opportunities. Clubs, businesses, families, individuals, scouts or any other service group are invited to call. Everyone can make a difference!
Q. 211 does not work on my phone?
A. While 211 works from most residential phones, it is not yet working in every phone, including Verizon cell phones. Some office buildings limit certain dialing codes to be used from their phones. 211 will eventually work in every phone. In the meantime, a person can call 1-888-826-9790. Please let us know if 211 is not working from your phone.
Q. Will I pay a fee when I call 211?
A. 211 is a free service, so there will be no charge on your telephone bill after calling us.
