Just as you dial 9-1-1 for emergencies, you can now call 2-1-1 in Kane County and be connected to a live specialist, any time of the day or night, to assist you with your human service and resource needs

With more than 1,000 government, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations providing much needed services throughout Kane County, it can be overwhelming and confusing to know who does what and exactly where to start to get help needed. 2-1-1 is a free, centralized, anonymous place to start with a specialist on hand to help sort out the options. No computer or internet is required, translation is available in over 150 languages and callers of all ages can use this service as often as needed.

More than 94% of the U.S. population, including more than 40 counties in Illinois, have access to 2-1-1. This has proven to be a valuable resource for anyone looking for help, whether it’s yourself, a family member, an employee, client, or anyone who comes to you seeking assistance.

Batavia United Way has contracted with PATH, an accredited call center in Bloomington, IL, to receive calls 24/7/365. PATH currently provides 211 service for 40 counties in Illinois, is AIRS Certified and Red Cross and Fema approved for disaster aftermath assistance.

This three-year 211 pilot has been made possible by funding and support from Kane County schools, Kane County government, Batavia, Elgin, Fox Valley and Chicago Metro United Ways, a $20,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Fox River Valley and a $64,000 grant over three years from the Dunham Fund.

ALL KINDS OF SUPPORT

The 2-1-1 hotline can offer access to the following types of resources:

Basic Human Needs: food banks, clothing, shelters, rent assistance, utility assistance.

Physical and Mental Health: crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, Medicaid and Medicare, services specific to cancer, early childhood development and more.

Employment Support: unemployment benefits, financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs.

Support for Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities: home health care, adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, transportation, and homemaker services.

While Comcast, AT&T, Mediacom, Verizon, and others are LIVE, there are more than 100 phone carriers in Illinois. If your carrier does not allow access, please contact the 211 call center using the toll free number: 888-865-9903. PATH will contact your carrier and you can still ask your human resource and social service questions in the same call.

For other questions, contact your local United Way or info@bataviaunitedway.org.

SOURCE: Batavia United Way news release