ROSEBURG, Ore. (KMTR) -- The call service 211 Info is similar to 911. It offers help not for accidents or emergencies, instead, for everyday life concerns.
The service grew from a United Way project in Atlanta, Georgia and today it covers parts of all fifty states. In Oregon, 211 Info connects people to over 500 services such as food assistance, shelter, health care and counseling.
In May, the service extended to Douglas County, and on averag, about 150 residents in the area use 211 each month. Rent assistance, food stamps and utilities help are among the most requested services.
"I think what it does is helps people not run down blind alleys or not waste their time trying to get to the right service when they need it," says Mike Fieldman, Executive Director of the United Community Action Network (UCAN). "It's just a service that really provides some real in-depth informational referral services."
The Greater Douglas United Way and UCAN have worked in partnership to bring the 211 service to Douglas County. Fieldman says people can also access 211 online. Just visit 211info.org to get started.
211 Info is available in many counties around Oregon, including Lane, Linn, Benton and Coos County. The goal is to provide the service for the entire state by the end of the year.
