United Way of Berks County helps thousands of people each year through 211
211 is Berks County’s lifeline for help. In a crisis, in a disaster, in a pandemic, 211 is here to help every person in our community connect to essential services. Here are five things to know about this vital service:
1. 211 connects people to local resources like:
- Food
- Stable housing and utilities payment assistance
- Veteran services
- Crisis and emergency counseling for mental health concerns and domestic violence
- Disaster assistance
- Financial literacy, and coaching
- Health care needs
- Child care and family services
2. 211 is for everyone. Last year 211 received 9,429 contacts from Berks County residents, a 42% increase over 2019. The top needs were Housing and Shelter, Utility Assistance and Food, and contacts came from zip codes throughout our community. We all face challenges at some point in our lives. 211 is available to help anyone, no matter their situation.
3. 211 is always available. The service is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It’s also available in multiple languages. Reach out via phone by calling 211, text your zip code to 898211 or visit pa211east.org to search online.
4. You will talk to a real person. Every call is answered by a real person, a caring expert who offers comfort, hope, and solutions. 211 specialists are trained to identify and address the underlying root causes of a client’s problem – and connect them with a wide range of available resources that meet all the underlying needs.
5. You can find volunteer opportunities. 211 is also a way to get connected and give back. Tell the specialist your interests and location, and they’ll help you find the opportunity that’s right for you.
Learn more at pa211east.org
