Mediaboss Marketing

MANITOWOC ? The United Way of Manitowoc County recently celebrated the 14th anniversary of National 2-1-1 Day on Feb. 11, according to a press release.

For the millions of Americans needing help every day ? from locating financial assistance during a family crisis, to finding adequate care for an aging parent, to searching for the highest-quality child care, 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember phone number connecting people quickly to essential community resources, the release stated.

In 2011, United Way 2-1-1 answered close to 500 calls from residents of Manitowoc County. Of the total calls: 73 percent were Manitowoc residents, 15 percent Two Rivers and 3 percent Kiel. Calls also came from Valders, Mishicot, Reedsville, Whitelaw and other rural areas, according to the release.

The majority of individuals needed help with basic needs like food, utilities, housing and health care, the release indicated. Last year in a survey of 2-1-1 call centers across the country, 86 percent reported receiving more calls from those who have never used 2-1-1 before. Furthermore, approximately 90 percent reported receiving more calls from individuals who have never before accessed any form of basic needs services (food pantries, rent assistance, utility assistance, public assistance benefits).

To access 2-1-1 services, dial 2-1-1 from your home or cell phone. If in an area where dialing 2-1-1 does not work, call 1-800-924-5514. Individuals also may search for services online by visiting http://www.unitedwaymanitowoc.org. Click on the 2-1-1 icon.

For more information, contact the United Way office at (920) 682-8888.

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United Way spreads word about 2-1-1