Need someone to listen, help? 2-1-1 is the place to turn

In this article, you’ll find answers to questions like:

1. How to connect to 211?
2. What to expect at 211?
3. What programs are offered?

The EveryParent website and apps often include 211 as a resource or source of information. So what does that mean, and how does it work?

“211 is your local community helpline and crisis hotline,” says Sharon L’Herrou, president of 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast.

In one year alone, the agency responds to more than 100,000 requests for help from people in the community who need information, guidance and support, she says.

The helpline has helped Palm Beach County residents since 1971, more than 45 years of trusted service. It provides crisis intervention, including suicide prevention. Callers can get information, assessments and referrals to local resources and services. Calls are free and confidential, and the lines are open 24 hours a day year-round. Residents can call, text, chat, or send an email to get help for themselves, their families or other loved ones, of any age, in all of the most-common languages in the county.

The most common calls seek help for mental health and addiction, housing, food, utility services and health care. Other specialized services include those for children, elderly and families with special needs.

“Most importantly, we will listen to you,” L’Herrou says. “Sometimes having someone who is not going to judge you or set conditions, who simply wants to hear what you have to say, can make all the difference.”

1. HOW TO CONNECT TO 211?

• By phone 24/7: Dial 2-1-1 or 561-383-1112. Out-of-area callers can call 866-882-2991.
• By email: Send to help@211pbtc.org for a reply the next business day.
• By text 24/7: Type your questions or comments and ZIP code to 898211.
• By online chat from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily: Connect here.

2. WHAT TO EXPECT AT 211?

• A caller will hear a prompt to select your language and the type of help you’re seeking. There may be a brief hold time.
• A caring person on the line will listen to your concerns or situation.
• You may be asked for your ZIP code and some other information that 211’s funders use to make sure all families are served.
• A resource specialist will direct you to the appropriate service providers and give you a referral.

3. WHAT PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED?

• Help Me Grow: The info line offers information, resources and materials to parents and caregivers of children up to age 8. This may include referrals with advocacy and follow-up, screenings for health and development, enrollment in community programs, and networking opportunities for families, service providers and community partners. Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County helps fund the Help Me Grow line.
• Special Needs Helpline: This service provides advocacy for parents of children and young adults up to age 22 who have special needs and need help finding services and support. Children’s Services Council also helps fund the Special Needs Helpline. 
• Sunshine Daily Telephone Reassurance: Volunteers call each day to check on the well-being of participants age 60 or older who are housebound or disabled. When there is no answer or the caller has concerns, assistance is sent to the home for a face-to-face check.
• Elder Crisis Outreach: This helps vulnerable or distressed residents 60 or older find crucial services.

Locally,  211 is funded by Children’s Services Council, United Way of Palm Beach County, the Palm Beach County Commission, the Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network and Help Me Grow Florida.