2-1-1
2-1-1
2-1-1 is a free, confidential referral and information helpline number that connects callers to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Nationally, 2-1-1 is to social services what 9-1-1 is to emergency services.
- The United Way of Southeast Iowa refers hundreds of callers in search of social services to 2-1-1 call centers in Central and Southeastern Iowa.
- 2-1-1 is available in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Individuals call 2-1-1 in search of food, shelters, utilities, rental assistance, health care, counseling and much more in their local community.
The Federal Communications Commission designated 2-1-1 the national community services and volunteer number in July of 2000.
2-1-1 services are free. Your telephone provider’s long distance rates may apply if you are calling one of the local 10-digit numbers from out of the area. If you are calling from a cell phone, air time and other cell phone charges may apply.
You can dial 2-1-1 from most landlines, VoIP, and cellular carriers; however, some cell phone carriers and office buildings block access to all N11 number (2-1-1) numbers except 9-1-1.
If you are having problems dialing 2-1-1, call one of the 10-digit numbers below.
Direct: 515-246-6555
Toll Free: 800-244-7431
Text: Text your zip code to 898211
Chat Hours: Mon – Fri, 8am – 4pm
Chat: Click Here to Start A Chat Session
Email: UWCI211@unitedwaydm.org
Yes, there are 2-1-1 call centers throughout the country. Go to www.211.org and follow directions for locating the closest 2-1-1 call center to your friend or relative.
Each year, 16 million people in the United States dial 2-1-1 for help with basic needs like food and shelter or emergency services.
2-1-1 Counts is the first tool to provide real-time, searchable and visual presentations of data from 2-1-1 call centers across the nation.