2-1-1 Serves Roanoke Valley

When life or death emergency happens, people instinctively dial 9-1-1. But who do Americans call when they need help, but not an ambulance, squad car or fire truck? What if you needed access to eldercare services or to find a local women’s shelter or referrals for childcare? What if you could commit to memory the contact name and phone number for every social service agency? For millions of Americans, a way to get help they need is just three digits away, 2-1-1.

2-1-1 currently reaches approximately 107 million people (over 37% of the total US population) in 30 states and in the District of Columbia. A study conducted by University of Texas on the cost-benefit of a national 2-1-1 system showed that for an individual who is seeking information or referral services for which they have little or no prior knowledge or experience, dialing 2-1-1 is much simpler than other options. Such a one-stop shop for social services would provide $1.1 billion in net value to American taxpayers over the next 10 years.

UWRV worked in partnership with the Council of Community Services to bring 2-1-1 to the Roanoke Valley, where it went live in 2006. Click here to read the 2-1-1 Virginia brochure.

In order for 2-1-1 to be completely effective, the service must be seamless nationwide. Efforts are underway in Congress to secure federal funding and support its nationwide adoption. Supporters of 2-1-1 can call 1-888-PASS211 (1-888-727-7211) to encourage their members of Congress to co-sponsor this and similar legislation.

For your information and referral needs, please call 2-1-1 or click the logo.

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