Everyone knows about 911. Unfortunately, not everyone is aware of 211, the nationwide service that connects people to community resources, nonprofit services and help during a crisis.
211 puts you in touch with a trained community specialist any time of the day, every day of the year. The 211 team at United Way of Greater Nashville manages local and regional databases for every county in Tennessee to make the connection to the social services network more efficient. From volunteer opportunities to disaster recovery to legal services, 211 is ready to help with all questions and challenges—no matter the situation.
The first step to helping others is listening to them. For us to be better neighbors, it is important to tune in to what they need. The 211 Helpline provides us with just that: a space to listen and a resource to provide help.
Looking back at 2022, we compiled a list of the top 211 requests in our six-county service area:
– Cheatham County: The impact of the pandemic, along with economic stressors, remain a concern for many of our neighbors. Nearly 10 percent of requests were for mental health and addictions. 211 is one way that individuals and families are accessing local treatment and mental health services.
– Davidson County: Our community resumed pre-pandemic activities in 2022, which shifted some 211 requests. In fact, requests for employment and income fell by five percent.
– Dickson County: Requests for housing and shelter decreased, while our neighbors increasingly sought assistance for essentials such as food and utilities.
– Hickman County: Due to inflation, we have all seen steep increases in the price of staple foods such as butter, eggs, milk and bread. In this county, food requests nearly doubled.
– Robertson County: Every day, team 211 connects our Robertson County neighbors to essential needs. The top three requests were for housing and shelter, food and utilities assistance.
– Williamson County: Thirty three percent of requests were for housing needs. Our neighbors specifically sought help with rent assistance and local shelters.
Get connected. Get help.
How do you reach 211? It’s simple! Dial 211 or text your zip code to 898-211.