Impact Story

United Way brings 211 to Lawrence, Gallia counties

Free, confidential resource connects Ohio residents with local help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Residents of Lawrence and Gallia counties in Ohio now have access to 211, a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people with the local resources they need to overcome life’s challenges.

By simply dialing 2-1-1, residents can speak with a trained Community Resource Navigator who will listen to their needs, identify available resources and help develop a plan to access services. Assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by phone, with additional support available through online chat and text.

Whether someone is facing an unexpected hardship or simply isn’t sure where to turn, 211 provides a single point of access to thousands of community resources, including:

  • Food assistance
  • Housing and emergency shelter
  • Utility assistance
  • Mental health and substance use services
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Employment and workforce resources
  • Services for older adults
  • Veteran services
  • Childcare and family support
  • Disaster and emergency assistance
  • And many other local programs and services

“No one should have to face life’s challenges alone,” said Jedd Flowers, Executive Director of United Way of the River Cities. “Bringing 211 to Lawrence and Gallia counties makes it easier for people to find trusted, local resources with one simple phone call.”

211 is operated by trained Community Resource Navigators who provide compassionate, confidential assistance and maintain an extensive database of local health and human services. The service is available to anyone seeking help for themselves, a family member, a friend, or a neighbor, regardless of income.

“Every day, people face challenges they may not know how to navigate,” said Chiara Cameron-Wood, Senior Director of 211 at United Way of Greater Cleveland. “Our goal is to make it easier for residents to find trusted, local resources through one simple call. Whether someone needs immediate assistance or just isn’t sure where to start, 211 is here to help.”

The expansion into Lawrence and Gallia counties represents another step in Ohio’s effort to ensure residents across the state have equitable access to trusted information and referral services.

Residents can access assistance anytime by dialing 2-1-1 or 888-Ohio-211 from any phone.

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