HelpLine Recognizes the Vital Community Hotline on National 211 Day
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 11, 2026
HelpLine Recognizes the Vital Community Hotline on National 211 Day
Delaware, OH – Today, February 11 is National 211 Day – an annual observance celebrating the go-to, 24/7 three-digit (211) resource that helps millions of people in the U.S. and Canada – including those in in the HelpLine service areas of Delaware, Morrow, Crawford, Wyandot, Union, Shelby, Logan and Miami counties. The three-digit service – which has operated for over 40 years – connects information about resources and services available in one’s community.
Nationally, 211 triaged 16.8 million requests and in our service area, we responded to 19,256 calls, texts, emails and in-person contacts to help people in our community access help for immediate or long-term challenges.
211 is a vital resource leveraged by local residents who need assistance with disaster, food, health care, mental health, insurance, stable housing, utility payment, veteran services, childcare and other related needs. Other key facts about 211:
- 211 is 24/7, free and confidential and accessible in 99 percent of communities
- 211 is offered in over 180 languages
- 211 specialists offer empathetic, non-judgmental care – and these trained specialists connect individuals and families to a range of available resources to meet their underlying needs, not just the one that prompted the call, text, or email.
“211 is an unmatched, critical, go-to service that provides connection and support to those who need help for a range of needs,” said Dr. Tonia Pace, HelpLine Executive Director. “During 211 Day, we aim to express appreciation to the call specialists who provide support to help our community members and celebrate this lifeline that is helping thousands.”
Established in 2000 by the Federal Communications Commission as the three-digit number to reach information and referral services for health, human, and social organizations, today 211 is a resource for help and hope in communities. In 2002, HelpLine became the first agency in the state of Ohio to launch 211, leading the charge to connect residents to vital health and human services.
While 211 is available every day of the year, it is an especially helpful during times of disaster, such as hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires, by helping to spread accurate and vetted information—while ensuring 911 calls are reserved for physical emergencies.
During 211 Day, HelpLine encourages the community to:
- Call, text, or chat 211 if they or someone they know needs help
- Share 211 widely with their neighbors, family and friends to connect others to help and supports
- Advocate to your local policymakers for the importance of and need to strengthen 211
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About HelpLine
As the community’s only 24/7 resource, HelpLine is the go-to for supporting and empowering change. Our highly trained specialists offer compassionate support to help meet the needs of anyone in crisis, connecting them with the right resources and empowering them to thrive. Our prevention programs address suicide and depression, sexual assault, child sexual abuse, and family violence to influence change in our community. Rooted in strong partnerships with local nonprofits and agencies, HelpLine connects community members with the support, education, and volunteer opportunities they need to live healthy, connected lives. For more information, visit helplinedelmor.org.
Contact:
Tamika Vinson-Reid,
Marketing and Development Director
HelpLine
P: 740.363.1835, ext. 305
F: 740.369.0358
E: tvinson@helplinedelmor.org
W: helplinedelmor.org