2-1-1 is simply the number to call to give help and to get help. It is an easy-to-remember phone number that connects people who are looking for help or would like to volunteer to the appropriate community resources. Free and confidential access to health and human services is offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During times of disaster, 2-1-1 provides accurate and timely information, as well as referrals to disaster recovery services. 2-1-1 also helps identify where the gaps are in health and human services and provides valuable information for community and resource planning.
2-1-1 represents an easier way to find answers to a wide range of issues including (but not limited to):
- Birth control
- Clothing closets
- Counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Disability Services
- Disaster Services
- Domestic Violence Programs
- Donation Services/Options
- GED / Adult Basic Education
- Emergency Shelters
- Employment Services
- Energy / Utility Assistance
- ESL Programs
- Free and Subsidized Clinics
- Food Pantries
- HIV / AIDS Programs
- Holiday Programs
- Legal Assistance
- Low-Rent and Public Housing
- Meal Sites
- Mental Health Services
- Older Adult Services
- Parenting Programs
- Pregnancy Services
- Rent Assistance
- Substance Abuse Services
- Suicide Prevention
- Support Groups
- Tax Preparation (Free)
- Transportation Programs
- Veterans Services
- Victim Services
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Voting Information
There is no charge if you call from a landline. Also, the majority of cell phone carriers have made 2-1-1 calling available to their customers. The toll free number for Iowa is 1-800-2447431.
Non-profit organizations and government agencies can submit information about their programs and services. In some instances, for-profit organizations providing unique community services are also included. To be listed, they must provide free or subsidized health and human services to Iowa residents.
2-1-1 call centers have access to a Language Line, which provides interpreting services in 170+ languages, 24 hours a day. All information provided is 100% confidential. The Call Specialist will ask for a zip code to help locate the services closet to the home of the person in need. The caller may be asked if they are willing to provide additional information for a quality assurance follow-up; however, under no circumstance is a caller required to provide any identifying information.
If you are looking for help for a family member who lives out of state, you can simply visit www.211.org and search by zip code, city or state. If you do not have access to the internet, please call 2-1-1 and your local representative can find the appropriate number for you.