Why do we need 2-1-1?

  • Without 2-1-1, vulnerable populations—such as non-English speakers, low-income individuals, and families in crisis—often give up long before they find help.
  • The Bay Area's vast spectrum of community services is complex. Without 2-1-1, many people make 7 to 8 phone calls to get the help they need.
  • 2-1-1 is a critical tool in times of disaster. Expanding 2-1-1 in the Bay Area now is crucial preparation for the next major earthquake or disaster.
  • 2-1-1 offers tremendous economic benefits for our region. These savings come in the form of reduced non-emergency calls to 9-1-1 and more efficient human services planning due to enhanced data collection—just two of 2-1-1´s many benefits.

Way 9

2-1-1 provides an outlet for the non-emergency calls that can flood 9-1-1 center druing a disaster.

» Other ways 2-1-1 works