United Way of Greater Kansas City is proud to operate 211, our region’s 24/7 resource and referral line. In 2024, our 211 Community Resource Navigators (CRNs) hit a new record high of total contact volume, which is defined as the cumulative number of phone calls and unique website visits to 211KC.org–with 476,691 contacts, a 33-percent increase from 2023.
Calls to 211 and online inquiries via 211KC.org are free and confidential. Navigators listen diligently to uncover needs and identify help, utilizing a database of more than 7,000 community services.
The top five needs identified by callers and online inquiries in 2024 were:
- Utility Assistance
- Housing Stability (Rent, Mortgage)
- Unhoused Services (Shelters, including domestic violence and drop-in locations)
- New Housing Needs (Rental deposits, housing search help)
- Transportation
February 11th (2-11) is recognized as 211 Day in honor of the vital services provided by 211 networks around the nation.
“211 is often the front-door for people in desperate situations needing help,” said Todd Jordan, Ph.D., United Way Vice President of Community Impact and 211 Executive Director. “The work our community resource navigators do every day plays an instrumental role in connecting our community to programs and services while driving United Way’s mission forward as an ecosystem coordinator. By reducing barriers, creating partnerships and innovating to meet community needs, 211 makes Kansas City a place where all can thrive.”