2-1-1 Offers Help to Those in Need

Austin, TX - The downturn in the economy has a lot of folks in Central Texas looking for help and it's led to a surge in calls to United Way's 2-1-1 helpline.

The free resource offers info on a range of topics from health and human services to disaster relief.

On average, about 20 operators are there, taking calls and answering questions.

This past year, nearly 247,000 calls were made to 2-1-1, a 30 percent increase over the year before.

The helpline saw a 50 percent increase in assistance and referrals for health needs, and more than a 25 percent increase in food and housing requests.

Staff believe the surge in calls is due to the rise in unemployment in Texas.

"One of the most significant indicators of the increase in calls and it being due to the economy is the number of first-time callers that we've had," said Jerry Ronquillo, with 2-1-1 Texas. "It's been really interesting to talk to people for the first time who -- some have never heard of 211 until their friend told them about it."

The helpline is used to identify needs and trends in the community.

2-1-1 is also the point of contact for info about H1N1 Swine Flu.

Operators go through a great deal of training so they are able to answer all questions, or point the caller in the right direction.