2-1-1, United Way’s community information line, is so important during these tough economic times.  Finding help can be confusing and intimidating, but 2-1-1 makes it easy.  2-1-1’s trained and caring specialists are helping thousands of Bay Area residents find the help they need.  

Joanna, a 2-1-1 Bay Area call specialist, shared a story about a call she answered recently:

Peggy called 2-1-1 yesterday. She is 24 years old, has a small child, and had spent last night in the car. She was in tears because she did not want to have to tell her child again they might have to sleep in the car.

When she called, she was standing outside of a shelter that was full and they had told her to call 2-1-1. I was able to connect  Peggy to  other shelters in her area. Also, as Peggy was a recipient of public assistance , I explained  that she may be eligible for their homeless prevention fund that could pay for a motel.  I suggested she contact her caseworker.

We agreed that I would call her back the next day to see how the referrals turned out, but I encouraged her to  call us back before then if there was anything else she needed .

When I followed up with Peggy today, she said that she was so relieved. One of the agencies I had referred her to was able to pay for a motel room for her and her child that night.  Additionally, one of the other referrals I had given her  had a spot for her in their transitional housing program.  She said she was very grateful for all the help she received from 2-1-1.

Has 2-1-1 helped you or a friend?  Please share your story in the comment section below.