When you’re dealing with health challenges, even small setbacks can feel overwhelming. It’s one of the things that drives individuals to call 211, our regional resource and referral line, for assistance.
- For one recent caller, the stress of his situation was compounded when he lost his wallet—along with the identification he needed to access essential services. He had been doing everything he could to find or replace it, but every attempt led to a dead end. Feeling stuck, he called 211 to see if there was any way our Community Resource Specialists could assist. Our 211 specialist listened closely, recognizing not only the urgency of the situation, but also the emotional weight behind it. She got to work—researching agencies that help to replace lost ID and searching for any additional resources that might help lighten the load. While not every solution was available that day, the specialist was able to connect him with the right places to start and offer clarity where there had only been confusion. Before the call ended, the caller expressed just how grateful he was—not only for the information, but for being met with kindness, resourcefulness and support. That one conversation helped him move from feeling stuck to taking the next step forward.
- After months of living with mold in her home, an area resident dialed 211 seeking support. Her health had suffered and an top if it all, her landlord had begun eviction proceedings—leaving her uncertain about where to turn next. She connected with a Community Resource Specialist who listened with compassion and quickly got to work. She had already taken a brave step by pursuing legal action, but the outcome was still pending. In the meantime, she needed support with immediate needs. The specialist provided referrals for housing resources and emergency assistance to help meet some immediate needs. The specialist provided referrals for housing resources and emergency assistance to help meet some immediate needs. During a follow-up, the caller shared just how meaningful the interaction had been, saying: “The woman who helped me with services was absolutely wonderful…so helpful and so very caring. Thank you, thank you!” She gave the experience a 10 out of 10, expressing deep appreciation for the kindness and support she received. Though the legal case is still unfolding and could not be resolved quickly—in that moment, she felt heart and cared for. And sometimes, that can be just as valuable.
- A mother caring for her child with a disability reached out to 211, concerned that her electricity was at risk of being shut off. This was a serious concern for her son’s medical needs. She had reached out to 211 before, followed through on previous referrals and searched for help from every direction. But no immediate assistance was available to prevent utility disconnection. The 211 Community Resource Specialist who answered listened with care and took the time to look again—checking for anything new or that had not been previously tried. The specialist was able to connect the caller with a resource she had not yet been connected with: St. Vincent de Paul. It wasn’t a guarantee. Emergency assistance programs often facing overwhelming demand and many families face long waits or limited availability. But this time, it made a difference. During a follow-up, the mother shared she had received support from St. Vincent de Paul and described her experience as a 10 out of 10. While she’s still waiting to hear back on other applications for longer-term assistance, that moment of help matter a lot. “I’m extremely grateful for the support,” she said. Not every 211 call leads to an immediate answer, but sometimes—it leads to the right next step. And in situations like this, even one connection can bring relief, dignity and the reminder no one has to face hard times alone.
United Way 211 is here for our community 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s free and confidential with service available in 150+ languages. If you or someone you know needs help and simply don’t know where to turn, 211 is here for you with more than 7,000 community resources to connect you with.