211 service resumes in Warren County

The 211 information and referral service is back in Warren County.

The 211 information and referral service is back in Warren County.

United Way of Warren County has launched HelpLink 211, an information and referral helpline for health and human services needs for Warren County residents.

The launch was announced in a press release issued Tuesday.

RELATED: Warren County commissioners support push for 211 service

Staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days, a week, 365 days a year, calls are answered by professionally trained operators who have ready resources through a directory of social service agencies.

Through a collaboration of neighboring United Way organizations including in Butler and Clinton counties and the United Way of the Greater Dayton Area, and United Way of Oxford, Ohio & Vicinity, Warren County was able to join the mix to provide this service to residents, according to the release.

“While all United Ways operate as independent entities, governed and managed by people living and working in their specific areas, coming together regionally with neighboring United Ways we already work so well with to deliver this service makes total sense,” Aaron Reid, President and CEO of United Way of Warren County, said in the release. “Pooling resources for 211 services allows us to provide an important tool for people in need, regardless of income level, while delivering this initiative in an efficient, cost-effective manner.”

Individuals who have pre-paid mobile phones or mobile phones with a non-local area code can call 855-405-7629 for prompt assistance. those using a Telecommunication Device for the Deaf should dial 937-910-6040.

The HelpLink 2-1-1 resource directory may also be accessed online at www.211.org.

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The collaboration was granted $10,000 from Ohio United Way, through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to help in the promotion of this service.

In February, the Warren County Board of Commissioners joined with efforts to bring back the 2-1-1 social-service telephone referral service offered in 67 other Ohio counties.

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Last year, the State of Ohio Controlling Board set aside $200,000 to expand 2-1-1 calling services to Warren and Clinton counties.

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