United Way News

7/7/2010
Take action to pass HR211

On Wednesday July 7, 2010, United Ways of California, United Way of the Bay Area, and United Way Silicon Valley along with several corporate partners, held a press conference featuring HR211 sponsor, Representative Anna Eshoo. Representative Eshoo and other speakers emphasized that now is the time for action! United Way of Ventura County is taking action along with other United Ways and 2-1-1’s across the country in an effort to raise awareness of how vital 2-1-1 is to our communities and the importance of passing HR211!

2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember telephone number that connects people to essential community information and referral services. Calls are answered by live trained specialists who can asses an individual’s needs and help them navigate the complex web of services available to help them. Not only can 2-1-1 connect callers to resources ranging from mental health programs to childcare resources, domestic violence shelters and financial counseling centers, but in times of emergency or natural disaster, it can also provide crucial assistance such as evacuation information, the location of shelters, and even information for those looking to donate or volunteer.

Nationally, 2-1-1 service is available to 80 percent of the U.S. population with 240 active 2-1-1 call centers in 46 states; in California, nearly 90 percent of the population is covered. Here in Ventura County, 2-1-1 answered 18,690 calls in 2009. However, many 2-1-1 call centers lack the resources needed to build an adequate telecommunications infrastructure, provide appropriate staff levels and training, establish or maintain 24-hour-a-day service, ensure complete and accurate informational databases, and reach rural populations. The Calling for 2-1-1 Act would provide funding necessary to meet these needs and see that every Californian, as well as every American, can get help by calling 2-1-1.

Take action today to help pass HR211! Call your representative and let them know that the time is now and we have waited long enough. Ask them to tell Chairman Waxman and Speaker Pelosi to get the bill to a vote and Pass HR211 now! Americans are struggling and need access to 211!

Take action now! Click on the link below to contact your representative.

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