HUNTSVILLE, Ala. —
Now, we all know that we can dial 911 in case of an emergency. But, do you know about 211?
It's a helpline that will connect you with just about any agency in the valley.
According to President/ CEO of United Way Madison County, Clay Vandiver, they’ve seen about 200 percent more calls since the COVID-19 pandemic started. He gave that information during Thursday's daily Madison County COVID-19 update.
Vandiver said, "The last two weeks of March verses the first two weeks of March-- we're up about 218 percent in pone calls over that two week period... We're second to only Birmingham now with calls coming in."
But, they say, they’re still here to help locals who need the 211 line.
By dialing 211, you’re connected with health and human service groups in our area.
Representatives say, most of their calls now range from food concerns to help with utility bills.
We spoke to Claudia Bucher, Director of Development with United Way of Madison County. Bucher says, “211 is very much like 911 or 411. But, it’s for social service needs. Food, shelter, rent assistance, utility assistance needs… Social service needs that may not be a ‘911’ but it’s still a critical issue, and it’s immediate.”
211 helpline is open 24/7. You can connect with these agencies online. Click here for more information.