"The NJ 211 team works around the clock to ensure that help is available when needed most," said Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes.  

Each February 11th, organizations around the country celebrate the 211 service. The FCC approved the 211 dialing code in 1997 to provide easy access to health and human services programs. Today, the 211 service is available in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

A variety of organizations operate the 211 service; half are either United Ways or have affiliations with United Ways. In 2021, 211s across the county handled over 21 million contacts for help. Most 211s also assist during times of emergency, which became very apparent during the pandemic and weather-related disasters like hurricanes, blizzards, tornadoes, and wildfires.

NJ 211 is a statewide, nationally accredited nonprofit organization that provides the 211 service to the residents of NJ. Services began thanks to the support and efforts from the United Ways of NJ in 2002. Shortly after, the NJ Department of Human Services provided additional support to enable after-hours and weekend 211 service availability. Several other state departments, including the Department of Community Affairs, Children and Families, Health, and Office of Emergency Management, have joined to support this vital service. 

Everyone knows about 9-1-1. But fewer people know about 211, the nationwide service for non-emergency life challenges. Everyone faces these types of challenges at some point in their lives. Where to start? Who can help? Often people do not know that 211 is the place to start.

1. We can help with complex challenges, whatever they may be. 211 connects people to resources like employment & job training, health and mental health assistance, child care, addictions, transportation, affordable housing, rent assistance, legal services, disaster recovery, utility assistance, disability resources, veteran services, and tax preparation.

2. 211 is for anyone. Everyone faces challenges. Job loss, illness, natural disasters and other events can upend anyone’s life. In those moments, 211 is a good resource to have in your back pocket. Best of all, the service is available to everyone, regardless of income level. Spread the word to your friends, family and co-workers so they are prepared when things take a turn for the worse.

3. 211 is available 24/7/365. That’s every day, every hour, every minute of the year. And if you don’t feel like calling, you can text or use the website.

4. 211 is available to 99% of the U.S. population effective February 3, 2023. This includes Puerto Rico and most of Canada.

5. 211 helps tens of millions each year. In 2022, the national network addressed over 20 million needs! NJ 211 made over 1.3 million connections between people in need and local help!

6. You’ll talk to a real person. A trained, expert specialist answers the call, helps identify the root causes of your problem, and connects you to local resources.

7. Translation is available in 180 languages, making the service available to millions more people than would otherwise have access to it.

8. You can call to find volunteer opportunities in your area. The holidays are an especially good time to check, as 211 often has a long list of local organizations and families that need help.

9. 211 changes lives. Lives like Talia’s. Concerned about her family’s living situation due to landlord issues, Talia was stressed about finding a place to sleep. When she called NJ 211, one of our specialists connected her to a nonprofit who paid for a temporary motel stay and helped her get into another apartment. Now, Talia and her family are safe and secure.

“I was desperate to get a place and some assistance for the month of July,” Talia recalled. “I am so grateful to them for their assistance. NJ 211 is a great resource for any New Jersey resident seeking help.”