Governor Evers has proclaimed February 11 as 211 Day in the State of Wisconsin! Started in 2000, this resources has changed countless lives for the better. Keep reading to learn more about what it is, how it works, and the impact it is had in the Fox Cities.
What is it?
211 is a free and confidential resource that connects individuals in need with local resources, information, and referrals to social services and other assistance resources.
How does it work?
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), 211 works a bit like 911. Calls to 211 are routed by the local telephone company to a local or regional calling center. The 211 center’s referral specialists receive requests from callers, access databases of resources available from private and public health and human service agencies, match the callers’ needs to available resources, and link or refer them directly to an agency or organization that can help.
In a nutshell, 211 provides a helpful and easy-to-navigate shortcut through what can be a maze of health and human service agency phone numbers.
What can 211 help with?
211 connects individuals with referrals and resources surrounding basic human needs, suicide prevention, physical and mental health , work support, access to services in non-English languages, and support for older Americans, individuals with disabilities, children and youth, and families.
211 in the Fox Cities
211 has been an integral part of providing referral sources to our Mental Health Navigator Program. When people call 211 regarding mental health concerns in the Fox Valley, they are directed to our Mental Health Navigator phone number which then gets them connected to mental health care like counseling, psychiatry, and other mental health supports!
So many community members have received the mental health care that they needed, thanks to calling 211 and getting connected right away!