On Feb. 11, the second month, eleventh day, DuPage County celebrated 211 Day, recognizing the three-digit phone number that has helped assist residents for the last two years.
The DuPage County Board recognizes the value of the helpline to the community’s residents and to raise awareness about the free service. 211 DuPage is a confidential 24-hour information and referral helpline that connects residents to health and human services.
According to a news release, “211 DuPage has helped more than 15,700 residents receive assistance for immediate and long-term challenges. Throughout 2024, trained call specialists connected roughly 8,650 people to locally available services, including help with rent, food, utility bills, senior programs, caregiver support, and health care. More than 4,100 residents sought assistance for utility payments, more than 2,100 callers requested help for their rent, and roughly 650 people got referrals to food pantries.”
In addition, services that can be provided to residents include mental health services, addiction support and rehabilitation, crisis counseling, supplemental food programs, shelter, affordable housing options, employment, financial assistance, senior programs, transportation and more.
Residents can call 211 anytime, or text their ZIP code to TXT211 or 898211 to get referrals to assistance available near them. Individuals seeking help may also visit the website at 211dupage.gov to find available services nearby 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
