Each day thousands of Marylanders search for information about health and human services. From food and shelter to medical care, protection from domestic violence and disaster relief, the list is endless. But now, getting help is as easy as dialing 2-1-1.

2-1-1 is a free, 24-hour, statewide, confidential information and referral service provided by United Way of Central Maryland through First Call for Help™, that links people in need with community resources. We maintain and reference a database of more than 4,000 health and human service agencies, government programs and other community resources that can assist Marylanders with a range of problems. It’s easy, free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Examples of need include:

BASIC NEEDS (food and shelter assistance)
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT
SERVICES FOR OLDER AMERICANS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES
EMERGENCY AND DISASTER RELIEF
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND DONATIONS

Currently, United Way and First Call for Help™ are actively participating in advocating for the creation of a permanent statewide 2-1-1 service.

In July 2000, the FCC set aside 2-1-1 as the number to call nationwide for community resource information and referral. United Way of Central Maryland is leading the public/private collaboration of Maryland human service organizations to make this a permanent service. Currently, a pilot program, located at First Call for Help™ and three other sites across the state, are operating.

In the first year, the four 2-1-1 centers received 222,707 calls for assistance. At United Way’s First Call for Help™, energy-related issues represented 20 percent of the total calls answered.