February 11 is National 2-1-1 Day. United Way of Wayne County is proud to join United Ways across North Carolina and the nation in celebrating NC 2-1-1, the free, confidential information and referral system that connects callers and web visitors to health and human services 24 hours a day/7 days a week/365 days a year. 2-1-1 helps people find resources for service needs such as food, housing, utility payment assistance, job training, information about health care providers, and more. NC 2-1-1 is also a part of the NC State Emergency Response Team. When activated during a disaster, NC 2-1-1 becomes the public information portal for disaster related information.

Residents who are looking for help, can simply dial 2-1-1 to reach a live, trained NC 2-1-1 call specialist who can connect them to local assistance. Calls to NC 2-1-1 are free and confidential, and information can be provided in over 170 languages. NC 2-1-1’s database is also accessible via nc211.org for anyone wishing to self-search for organizations and programs to meet their needs.

Last year thousands of callers from our community turned to NC 2-1-1 for help finding assistance. Housing, food and mental health were the top three requests from callers in 2020.  “United Way of Wayne County recognizes NC211 as a true asset to our community.  It means we can rest assured knowing when a community member is in need, there is a knowledgeable and empathic voice representing us, ready and prepared to provide them with a plethora of resources.”  Sherry Archibald, United Way of Wayne County Executive Director.

2-1-1 is free to every caller. United Way of Wayne County provides the service. At less than 2 cents per minute for caring, expert help 2-1-1 is a great investment and a vital resource for Wayne County residents. Donations to support 2-1-1 for Wayne County callers can be made by texting 211CONNECT to 44-321, at unitedwayne.org or by mailing a designated check to PO Box 10893 Goldsboro, NC 27532.

Locally, United Way of Wayne County is asking supporters of 211 to help promote 211 on social media and in their everyday life. Brochures and posters promoting 211 are available at the United Way office. Please call 919-735-3591 if you would like to reserve 211 promotional materials for your organization or if you would like to be emailed 2-1-1 graphics such as email signature blocks.