Oregon 211

What is 2-1-1?

2-1-1 is the three digit number set aside by the federal Communications Commission (FCC) in July 2000 for the sole purpose of providing health and human service information and referral (I&R). Similar to 911 for emergency services and 411 for directory assistance, 2-1-1 is the three digit number to dial for health and human service information and referral.

What is information and Referral?

Information and Referral (I&R) is the process of bringing people and services together, giving them the tools they need to help with the problems many of us experience from time to time. Every hour of every day, someone needs essential services - from finding an emergency food box distribution center to securing adequate care for a child or an aging parent. People looking for help often do not know where to begin. Locating such basic resources as food, shelter, employment, or health care may mean calling dozens of phone numbers, then struggling through a maze of agencies and services to make the right connections. When people call 2-1-1 they speak with professional I&R Specialists who work with them to assess their needs, determine their options and a best course of action, then direct them to appropriate programs/services, provide support, intervene in crisis situations and advocate for the caller as needed.

"The best part about the 2-1-1 system is that it is equally available to everyone. ... 2-1-1 will help people access the information they need when they need it."

- Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton