About 211

Background

In July 2000 the Federal Communications Commission assigned the three-digit dialing code 2-1-1 for the exclusive purpose of providing widespread access to community information and referral services. Once described as "elegant in its simplicity," 2-1-1 is an easy to remember phone number linking callers in need to available health and human service programs.
Locating basic resources such as food, shelter, employment, or health care may mean calling dozens of phone numbers, then struggling through a maze of agencies and services to make the right connections.
2-1-1 brings together organizations in the community to better serve the residents of Kings County. Key organizations representing different professionals, demographics, and causes are able to provide information to the 2-1-1 database to better serve their clients. 2-1-1 is a helpful starting point for a county with small fragmented rural communities that may not be as connected as bigger cities. Under a simple, easy to remember, three digit phone number, updated information is kept under national standards, the call is free and available 24/7, and the community also has a new tool in dealing with disasters in the area.
 
When we fully realize our vision, every individual in every community throughout Kings County will have access to information that can help them lead healthier, more secure, and more productive lives.