ST. JOSEPH, Mich. -- Feb. 11 is National 221 Day, an annual observance celebrating the three-digit, 24/7 help resource that connects people across the US and Canada with local health and human services free of charge.

The vital service supports neighbors in need throughout Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties.

In the 2024 211 Impact Survey, the 211-network responded to 16.8 million requests for help nationwide, resulting in more than 18 million hyperlocal referrals for assistance — an average of 32 calls, chats, or texts per minute.

211 continues to be a critical resource for residents facing immediate and long-term challenges.

Over the past year, 211 locally handled 12,642 calls throughout our three-county area.

Thousands of residents connected with 211 for assistance with a wide range of needs including basic living supports, health care, housing stability, and more.

211 Helps People Find Support for:

• Stable housing and homelessness prevention
• Utility payment assistance
• Food and nutrition resources
  
• Health care and mental health support
  
• Disaster and emergency resources
  
• Insurance navigation
  
• Veteran services
  
• Childcare and family support

The service is free, confidential, and accessible in over 180 languages.