February 28, 2019

2-1-1 Information/Referral Hotline Now Available in Kane County

Just like you dial 9-1-1 for emergencies, you can now call “2-1-1” in Kane County and be connected to a live specialist, any time of the day or night, to assist you with your human service and resource needs. 

The free service connects callers to more than 1,000 government, non-profit, and faith-based organizations that provide much-needed services in Kane County. No computer or Internet is required, translation is available in over 150 languages, and callers of all ages can use this service as often as needed.

2-1-1 offers access to the following types of resources:

  • Basic Human Needs: food banks, clothing, shelters, rent assistance, utility assistance.
  • Physical and Mental Health: crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, Medicaid and Medicare, services specific to cancer, early childhood development and more.
  • Employment Support: unemployment benefits, financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs.
  • Support for Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities: home health care, adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, transportation, and homemaker services.

Spearheaded by Batavia United Way, the free 2-1-1 service was been made possible by funding and support from Kane County Schools; Kane County Government; Batavia, Elgin, Fox Valley, and Chicago Metro United Ways; a $20,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Fox River Valley; and a $64,000 grant over three years from the Dunham Fund.

Ninety four percent of the U.S. population, including over 40 counties in Illinois, already have access to 2-1-1. This has proven to be a valuable resource for anyone looking for help, whether it’s yourself, a family member, an employee, client, or anyone who comes to you seeking assistance.

Batavia United Way has contracted with PATH, an accredited call center in Bloomington, Ill., to receive calls 24/7, 365 days of the year. PATH currently provides 2-1-1 service for 40 counties in Illinois, is AIRS Certified and Red Cross- and FEMA-approved for disaster aftermath assistance.

Please note: While Comcast, AT&T, Mediacom, Verizon, and other phone carriers are live with this service starting on November 1, 2018, there are over 100 phone carriers in Illinois. If your carrier does not allow access, please contact the 2-1-1 call center using the toll free number, 888-865-9903. PATH will contact your carrier and you can still ask your human resource and social service questions in the same call.

► For more information about 2-1-1, visit http://211.org. For additional questions, contact your local United Way or info@bataviaunitedway.org.