County Supervisor Gonzales Commends United Way’s 2‐1‐1 Information Line for 5 Years of Service and 305,000 Calls
San Bernardino County, CA – Community and nonprofit leaders joined San Bernardino County 5th District Supervisor Josie Gonzales for a celebration of United Way’s 2‐1‐1 Fifth Anniversary. The event held Friday morning at the Government Center Rotunda celebrated 2‐1‐1’s assistance to more than 305,000 local callers over the past five years.
2‐1‐1 is the county’s free health and social referral help line providing referrals to callers 24‐hours a day, 7 days a week. By simply dialing 2‐1‐1 on virtually any phone, callers are connected with a live Community Resource Specialist.
“On its 5th anniversary of the 211 program, I’m proud to support the work that it is doing,” said Josie Gonzales, Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. “We must recognize that 211 plays a vital role in solving the unpredictable circumstances that impact people’s lives. It’s comforting to know that when the unexpected happens, 211 is always there. I’d also like to recognize Gary Madden for his outstanding efforts in establishing and leading this organization.”
In preparation for the event, the County Board of Supervisors adopted a proclamation marking
February 11 – or 2/11 – as 2‐1‐1 Day for San Bernardino County through 2017. In attendance at the celebration was Assemblyman Mike Morrell as well as representatives from the offices of Senator Bob Dutton and Senator Gloria Negrete McLeod, in addition to the presidents of the four United Ways in the county.
The event featured examples of the many types of needs that residents call for as well as examples of actual calls from those in need. 211’s professional staffs were in attendance to discuss the over 2,500 resources in their database and a local caller shared the story of how 211 has helped connect her with vital resources for her family during a very difficult time in her life.
As the official operator of the 3‐digit toll‐free 2‐1‐1 dialing code, the United Way has answered more than 305,000 calls during the short history of 211, giving callers information and referrals to thousands of health and human service resources. An alternate toll‐free number also connects callers to the 24‐hour service: (888)435‐7565