This week we find February 11th or 2/11, is “211 Day” – an annual observance celebrating the go-to, three-digit resource that helps millions of people in the U.S. and Canada be connected to information about local resources and services. In 2023, Vermont 211 responded to 50,157 calls and texts for a wide range of challenges. Of the data collected from 2023, compared to 2022, there was a spike in disaster-related referrals in Vermont from 29 in 2022 to 2,417 in 2023 due to the July flooding. For example, these included FEMA application information, post-disaster clean-up services, shelter services and cash grants.

211 is a vital resource leveraged by residents who need assistance with disaster, food, health care, mental health, insurance, stable housing, utility payments, veteran services, childcare and other related needs. Vermont 211 is a program of the United Ways of Vermont.

Vermont 211 is a free, confidential service offered in 180 languages available every day from 8am-11pm. Vermonters may also text their zip code to 898211 Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 10 PM to communicate with a 211 community resource specialist. You can also search our online database at https://vermont211.org. Vermont 211 is a program of the United Ways of Vermont, a nonprofit organization that includes all of the regional United Way organizations of Vermont. For more information about Vermont 211, visit https://vermont211.org/.