On Feb. 11, United Way of Greater Chattanooga will celebrate the unsung heroes of the community—211 navigators who connect thousands of people to help when they need it most. National 211 Day is an annual recognition of 211 helplines across the country. Locally, United Way’s 211 helpline serves a 15-county region across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, providing a lifeline to those in need. Anyone in the community can call, text, or email to be connected to local resources.
Last year alone, the local 211 team responded to more than 73,000 requests. The top needs in the community continue to be food, utility support, and housing. The 211 online resource directory is also available 24/7 to easily find local and up-to-date resources.
The 211 direct emergency assistance fund is also a lifeline for those who have exhausted all other resources. Last year, $765,000 in direct emergency assistance provided relief to 3,498 individuals. The real impact of this free and confidential helpline is seen in the stories of people who found help when they needed it most.
Jeremy, a 211 caller, shared his story: “After losing my job in November of 2023, it became incredibly difficult to support my family and keep up with bills. Job opportunities fell through leaving me with no options. In my desperation, I reached out to 211. The assistance I received was a lifeline. They quickly and kindly covered my gas bill, allowing me to focus on what’s next for me and my family. In this challenging season, their support has been the brightest light, giving me hope. I’m deeply grateful for their support.”
Trained 211 navigators offer empathetic, nonjudgmental care. The local team, including two Spanish-speaking team members, connects individuals and families to a range of available resources to meet their underlying needs, not just the one that prompted the call to 211.
“211 is an unmatched, go-to service that provides connection and support on someone’s worst day,” said Mike Mudd, Senior Director of 211 at United Way of Greater Chattanooga. “211 Day is all about showing appreciation for our 211 team who are serving our neighbors during critical moments. It’s also about celebrating this lifeline and the hundreds of partners across the community who make this possible in Greater Chattanooga.”
The 211 helpline partners with more than 900 nonprofits to connect people with essential services. These organizations know the importance of meeting basic needs as the first step toward long-term stability.
There are lots of opportunities to join the celebration next week:
- Join the team at Cadence Coffee from 8:00-9:30 AM on Feb. 11 to learn more about the critical work of 211 and connect with fellow community changemakers.
- Media are invited to visit some of our top 211 referral partners on Feb. 11 as we thank them for their partnership. RSVP at [email protected].
- La Paz 11:00 AM
- 809 S Willow St, Chattanooga, TN 37404
- Chattanooga Area Food Bank 2:00 PM
- 2009 Curtain Pole Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37406
- La Paz 11:00 AM
To help support the critical work of 211 throughout the year:
- Share this resource with neighbors:
- Dial 2-1-1 or 423-265-800
- Text your zip code to 898-211
- Email [email protected]
- Donate today to keep this vital helpline running