What is United Way 2-1-1 of Kansas?
- 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember telephone number that connects people with important community services and volunteer opportunities.
- United Way 2-1-1 covers the state of Kansas.
- In 2000 the FCC assigned the 2-1-1 phone number to be used only for community information and referral nationwide.
What types of services does United Way 2-1-1 help callers find?
- Resources for basic human needs: food banks, clothing closets, shelters, rent assistance, utility assistance.
- Support for older individuals and persons with disabilities: adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, home health care, transportation, homemaker services.
- Support for children, youth and families: child care, after-school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps and
recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring, protective services. - Physical and mental health resources: Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, Children’s Health Insurance Program, health
clinics, crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention and rehabilitation. - Employment supports: job training, transportation assistance, education programs.
What are the hours of operation?
- Statewide service is provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How does it benefit Kansans?
- Benefits to Users:
- 2-1-1 is an easy way to find help or give help.
- One call gives people access to 1000s of resources in Kansas communities.
- All 2-1-1 calls are confidential and free (cell phone calls that reach 2-1-1 may have usual cell charges).
- Benefits as a Crisis Tool:
- During and after a tornado, flood, terrorist attack or other tragedy, 2-1-1 is a ready-to use number. There is no need to wait for an information system to be set up when a crisis occurs.
- One call can connect people to needed human services during a crisis. One call also quickly connects volunteers to local needs in a local tragedy.
- Since 2-1-1 is a permanent number, people can find help whether their needs arise a week or several months after a tragedy.
- Community Benefits:
- 2-1-1 acts as a social barometer—providing statistical information on what needs callers are presenting county by county throughout the state.
- 2-1-1 maintains the integrity of the 9-1-1 system—saving that vital community service for life and death emergencies.
- 2-1-1 strengthens the community by uniting people in the area who want to help with those who need help.
How is the service funded?
- Startup Sponsors: Kansas Health Foundation, Capitol Federal, Cessna Aircraft Company, Preferred Health Systems; In kind support: Royal Caribbean International
- General contributions to United Way
