Urge Congress to bring HR 211 to a vote. The Calling for 211 Act (HR211/S211) will expand the 211 community information line to all Americans.
In California, the bill supports expansion of 211 throughout the entire state – service is now available in just 26 of 58 counties. Without federal funding, expanding the Bay Area’s 211 call centers to serve growing needs will be a challenge.
Take action to support 211 today:
Visit www.liveunited.org/211, where you can quickly identify your Congressional representatives and send an email to urge them to bring HR211 to a vote.
Other Ways to Support 211
Know someone who needs help? Refer him or her to 211. 211 is available 24 hours a day to connect callers with thousands community services in our region.
Volunteer in United Way’s 211 call center.
What is 211?
Launched throughout the Bay Area in 2008, 211 is an easy-to-remember, toll-free phone number that connects callers with local community services, such as food, shelter, counseling, employment assistance, quality child care and more. During a disaster, 211 provides critical information about evacuation routes, food and shelter, as well as support with finding new jobs and permanent housing during long-term recovery. United Way operates 211 in several Bay Area counties.
Why pass HR211 now?
211 is a critical driver for economic recovery, especially for Americans who need community services to help rebuild their lives. Last year, 211 answered more than 200,000 calls in the Bay Area last year, and more than 16 million nationwide. Congress is heading toward the end of its 2010 session, and if the bill does not pass before this session ends, it will expire, and the country will lose its most significant opportunity to date to expand 211 coverage. Watch the 3-minute video from United Way’s “Pass HR211” press conference with U.S. Rep. Anna Eshoo.
“Pass HR211″ press conference and rally with U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo. Check it out!
