JOINING FORCES TO EXPAND 2-1-1
SERVICES THROUGHOUT OREGON

Since October of 2000 Oregon 211's goal has been to build an integrated, efficient statewide system that would provide 2-1-1 telephone access to trained information and referral specialists providing linkages to local health and human resources for persons in need of assistance.

2-1-1 has been available in the four county Portland metro area through 211info since 2004. 211info continues to grow and are now answering calls from six Oregon counties (Clackamas, Washington, Multnomah, Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson) and four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania and Wahkiakum). Calls to 2-1-1 have increased 47% over the past six months as requests for rent assistance, food, utility assistance and low-cost health care are on the rise. More than 62,000 calls for basic needs were answered by 211info between October 2008 and March 2009.

OR 211 and 211info, recently integrated operations in response to the growing demand for information resources and a recognized need to build 2-1-1 capacity throughout Oregon. The two organizations recognized the opportunity to leverage their common purposes and strengths at a time when financial resources are tight. The integrated organization will retain the name 211info and has expanded its purpose: to provide people throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington with comprehensive information and referral to human and community services, both in non-emergencies and intermittently in times of emergency.

With high unemployment rates and more families facing financial insecurity, the 2-1-1 community information and referral helpline can be the first line of defense. 2-1-1 is a three-digit phone number that links the newly needy to food boxes, low-cost health care and foreclosure prevention counseling. "For those unfamiliar and intimidated by the social service system, 2-1-1 is an easy way to get connected," said Victor Merced, Director of Oregon Housing and Community Services. "2-1-1 creates opportunities for low-income Oregonians to not only locate resources but also provides troubleshooting assistance many people need to navigate the complex social services in our communities."

211info is funded through public and private partnerships including United Way of the Columbia-Willamette, local governments and specialized hotlines such as 1-800-SAFENET, a service for maternal and child health information statewide.

"Community services are difficult to access anywhere, and the absence of a central number in rural parts of the state makes the challenge even greater. 211info has experience operating a call center supported by quality, professional staff. With additional resources, 2-1-1 can be provided so all Oregonians have access to localized health and human service information," said Vic Falgout, Program Director, United Community Action Network.

Please visit the 211info website for current information about the expansion of 2-1-1 services in Oregon: www.211info.org, or contact us at contact@211info.org, or 503-226-3099.