United Way 2-1-1 Missouri

United Way 2-1-1 is an easy to remember number that connects individuals with resources in their community and volunteer opportunities.

Because Missouri has about 30,000 nonprofit organizations and scores of government agencies, finding help can be confusing and intimidating. However, 2-1-1 call centers are staffed by trained specialists who quickly assess the callers' needs and refer them to the help they seek.

Information is available on a broad range of services:

  • Rent assistance
  • Food banks
  • Affordable housing
  • Health resources
  • Child care
  • After-school programs
  • Elderly care
  • Financial literacy
  • Job training programs 

Volunteers and donors also can use 2-1-1 to find out where their service or donations are most needed and appropriate.

2-1-1 benefits the nation
A national 2-1-1 system produces cost savings for taxpayers, employers and government, an estimated $130 million in the first year (according to a 2004 University of Texas at Austin analysis).

  • As of Feb. 1, 2007, 2-1-1 is available to more than 196 million Americans - more than 65% of the U.S. population. 
  • There are 209 active 2-1-1 systems operating in 41 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico

2-1-1 is a private-public partnership
United Way 2-1-1 in Missouri is funded through a $4.75 million grant by Missouri Foundation for Health for start-up and operational costs, and a $3.75 million investment from United Way of Greater St. Louis for operational costs. 
For more information, visit 2-1-1 Missouri at www.211missouri.org.  
Advocate for 2-1-1

Currently before the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate is The Calling for 2-1-1 Act. If this act is passed, a $700 million matching-grant program would be approved, helping to ensure every American has access to 2-1-1.

You can help this act pass by asking your Representative and/or Senator to co-sponsor The Calling for 2-1-1 Act. For more information, click on Support The Calling for 2-1-1 Act.