211 is a free, 24/7 information and referral service that helps people find essential resources in their local community.

Highly trained specialists listen to each caller’s situation and provide referrals to programs that can help — from housing and food to childcare, mental health support, transportation, and more.

211 maintains a database of 13,000+ resources statewide, serving all 95 counties in Iowa and offering interpreter services in 240+ languages.

It’s free, confidential, and available to everyone.

Anyone in Iowa can contact 211 and be connected with a specialist who will help identify available resources and next steps.

Reach 211 anytime:

✅ Call 2-1-1
✅ Text your ZIP code to 898211
✅ Visit 211iowa.org
✅ Download the free 211 app on‍ ‍Apple ‍or ‍Android

Interpreter services are available in 240+ languages, and assistance is accessible for people with disabilities

Knowing which number to call helps ensure people get the right support quickly:

988 - Suicide intervention & mental health crisis

211 - Help finding food, housing, utilities, services

911 - Emergencies, danger to life or safety

Every day, neighbors reach out needing help with:

• Food access

• Utility payment assistance

• Housing & shelter

• Healthcare & mental health

• Childcare

• Transportation

• Seasonal services like tax prep & holiday assistance

• Domestic violence & crisis supports

When people aren’t sure where to turn, 211 is where they start.

Having one coordinated entry point means:
✅ People get help faster
✅ Local organizations are connected with the right clients
✅ Families avoid navigating complicated systems alone
✅ Barriers are reduced for vulnerable community members

When our community is connected, our whole region is stronger.

If you—or someone you care about—needs help, 211 is the easiest way to find it.
You will be connected with a trained professional who listens to your situation and offers local resource referrals.

This service is:
✅ Free
✅ Confidential
✅ Judgment-free
✅ Available 24/7/365
✅ Offered in 240+ languages

You’ll receive referrals directly via phone, text, or email — sometimes even “warm-transferred” to another service provider if crisis-level support is needed.

211is only as strong as the quality of the information in its system — and your organization plays a key role.

Why your organization should be listed:

• Helps people find your programs quickly

• Reduces misinformation or outdated resource referrals

• Strengthens partnerships across the region

• Ensures your services are represented in countywide resource maps and data

United Way can assist you in creating or updating your listing to ensure community members can find your services.

Keeping Your Listing Updated

Accurate information ensures people reach you when they need help.

Best practices:
✅ Review & update your listing at least twice a year
✅ Add a recurring calendar reminder to update it
✅ Use a general inbox or main phone line (not personal staff emails)
— This prevents breakdowns when staff change
✅ Notify 211 when services change — hours, eligibility, availability
✅ Remove programs you are no longer able to operate

We’re here to help you with listing creation or updating — just reach out!‍ ‍

Need Help Updating Your Listing?

We’re happy to assist your agency with your 211 profile.

📧uwwc@wapellocouw.org
📞 641-682-1264