Need Help? Call 2-1-1

DON'T forget about 2-1-1.  This is an easy-to-remember telephone number that connects callers to health and human services, community resources, and government assistance that may be needed.  It is available 24/7 with a live person at the other end to speak with. Or get help online:

Click Here for NJ 2-1-1 Online

2-1-1 is New Jersey's community resource website. Just Call or Click! 2-1-1 can make it easier to locate where to go fro help, how to apply, and get information.

2-1-1 is a universally respected and growing national model. Today there are over 190 million Americans in 45 states who have access to community resources by dialing 2-1-1. On February 10, 2005, New Jersey's 2-1-1 system was launched statewide.

There is a solid infrastructure in place. As a result, 2-1-1 is operational statewide by landline, cell phone and Internet. 2-1-1 Call Centers are united through a Virtual Private Network, utilizing broadband connections and a statewide host server for database integration. The system is handling over 150,000 inquiries.

2-1-1 is managed by the NJ211 Partnership, a subsidiary of the United Ways of New Jersey which, in 2002, was designated by the Board of Public Utilities as sole administrator. The United Ways of New Jersey work to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. By affording the leadership to make 2-1-1 available to New Jersey residents, they have made an impact.

Most recently, 2-1-1 demonstrated its value during a time of crisis. 2-1-1 was used as a portal for Hurricane Katrina evacuees from the Gulf States seeking assistance with their relocation. Through 2-1-1, evacuees have been connected with Care Managers who make sure they are referred to the appropriate agencies and receive every service they require.

Concurrently, 2-1-1 is an effective management tool. The system generates real time data on requests, complaints, and services. Over time, 2-1-1 data will improve the quality of programs and services by making it possible to harvest essential information on resource allocation and use it for policy decision-making and budgeting.
 

2-1-1 Fact Sheet

What is 2-1-1?

• An easy-to-remember telephone number that connects callers to the human services they need.
• Available 24/7.
• Easily accessible by landline, cell phone and the Internet at nj211.org.
• Calls are free and confidential.
• Multi-lingual / TTY accessible.
• Certified Call Specialists make appropriate referrals and monitor outcomes to ensure services are provided.

Where is 2-1-1 Available?

• Calls are handled throughout New Jersey and local call centers are geographically distributed throughout the state.
• 65% of the U.S. population has 2-1-1 access.
• 2-1-1 is available in all or part of 41 states. New Jersey is one of 17 states offering coverage statewide.

What types of questions can be answered by
2-1-1 Call Specialists?

While resources that are offered through 2-1-1 vary from community to community, 2-1-1 Call Specialists will provide comprehensive information and referral services to callers about a variety of issues, including:

• Basic Human Needs Resource: food banks, clothing closets, shelters, rent assistance, utility assistance.
• Support for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities: adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, home health care, transportation, homemaker services.
• Support for Children, Youth and Families: childcare, after school programs, Kids Care (health insurance programs), family resource centers, summer camps and recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring, protective services.
• Physical and Mental Health Resources: health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, Children’s Health Insurance Program, medical information lines, crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention and rehabilitation.
• Employment Supports: financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, and education programs.

Who Funds 2-1-1 in New Jersey?

New Jersey’s United Ways, the State of New Jersey, county grants and the Verizon Foundation have generated more than $2.2 million in resources to support 2-1-1 operations in New Jersey.