211 Information, Referral, and Volunteer Advocacy
United Way of Mason County has taken a led role in forming a partnership with Lake, Mecosta, Newaygo, Oceana and Osceola Counties to provide 2-1-1 services across the six-county region. The partnership was formed to reduce duplication of services and costs. United Way of Mason County serves as the fiscal agent and employer of record for the six-county area.
2-1-1 is a nationally recognized number that individuals can call to obtain information on needed health and human services. The number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at no cost to the caller. If a person does not fill comfortable calling they can access the information on the website at www.call-211.org. Currently the residents of Mason and Oceana Counties have the ability to dial the 2-1-1 number. The remaining four counties still need to dial the toll-free number 1-877-211-5253 as they are going through the review process with the Michigan Public Service Commission to be authorized as a 2-1-1 calling area.
This program provides a centralized means for individuals to access current information on hundreds of programs and services either by making a single phone call or through the on-line database. In addition, it increases efficiencies by providing health and human service professionals and employers with an easy to remember number to access accurate information on behalf of clients and employers. Other benefits include:
Between April 2010 to December 2010, Call Center received 760 calls and 949 request for services from Mason County residents. Across the six-county area 2,306 calls were received and approximately 2,797 requests.
The following entities in Mason County are partnering with United Way of Mason County to make this program available for are residents:
For more information contact the United Way of Mason County office and ask to speak with Nicole Schwarz. The telephone number is 843-8593.