United Way 2-1-1

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February 11, 2008 marked the four-year anniversary of a vital service to eastern Iowa residents, United Way 2-1-1.

2-1-1 is a 24-hour hotline number that gives individuals information about human services and resources in our community.

The top needs people calling 2-1-1 include: utility assistance (searching for help with the expenses of utility bills), information and referral (getting contact information for services), childcare (seeking licensed programs that provide childcare), rent assistance/housing - to rent/own (finding affordable rental housing, paying rent), and food (locating food pantries or other food assistance).

United Way of Mahaska County is collaborating with five other United Ways (Cedar Valley United Way, United Way of East Central Iowa, United Way of Johnson County, United Way of Wapello County and Waverly-Shell Rock United Way) to bring 2-1-1 services to 834,000 residents living in 24 eastern and southeastern Iowa counties.

2-1-1 is a national number and is currently active in 41 states, plus Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and Canada. 2-1-1 serves approximately 190 million Americans which is over 65% of the U.S. population.

Visit United Way 2-1-1 online at www.211Iowa.org