Did you know that you can dial 2-1-1 and reach a trained professional 24 hours a day, every day of the year, through a network of local 2-1-1 centers serving 66 Ohio counties?

What kind of trained professionals? Whether you need help finding child care, food stamps, care for an aging parent or a haven from domestic violence, 2-1-1 is the number to call when you don’t know who to call.

The United Way has provided trained HELPLINE specialists that are good listeners. They will provide the proper information and referrals based on a comprehensive database of people with up-to-the-minute information about critical services. By simply dialing three digits, you can make one call to find help. No more wasted time trying to find the right resource. It’s efficient, fast and easy to use. And the call is free and confidential.

Some of the critical services are:

• Physical and mental health resources: Medical information lines, crisis intervention, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol treatment, Medicaid/Medicare, maternal health, children’s health, insurance

• Employment support services: Unemployment benefits, financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs

• Support for seniors and persons with disabilities: Home health care, adult day care, meal services, respite care, transportation, homemaker services

• Programs for children, youth, and families: Childcare, after school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring, protective services

• Support for community crisis or disaster recovery

Thank you United Way. Please copy or cut this editorial out and give it to a loved one. Please spread the word. This wonderful resource can save many lives if used.