When families face financial hardship or unexpected challenges, knowing where to turn for help can be one of the biggest obstacles. United Way of Floyd, Polk & Chattooga Counties is working to remove that barrier by connecting residents with assistance through the 211 helpline.

Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 211 is a free and confidential service that connects people with trained specialists who can help locate local resources for food, housing, utility assistance, healthcare, mental health services, employment, childcare, transportation, veteran services and many other community needs. The service is available in more than 180 languages and can be accessed by dialing 211 from a phone.

Rather than simply providing a list of phone numbers, 211 specialists work with callers to understand their individual circumstances and connect them with programs that best meet their needs. United Way says the service often helps people navigate multiple challenges at once by identifying resources they may not have known existed.

Nationally, 211 specialists handled approximately 19 million referrals in 2025, connecting people to nearly 1.7 million community programs and services across the country. The information gathered also helps identify emerging community needs and gaps in available services.

United Way officials encourage anyone in Floyd, Polk or Chattooga counties who needs help finding assistance to call 211 before a temporary setback becomes a larger crisis.