How has 211 — the free, confidential phone service — serviced Summit and Medina counties? In 2024, United Way fielded 76,304 calls and 1,594 texts and emails.
Across the United States, more than 16 million dial 211 annually to discover local services and resources. No wonder Feb. 11 marks National 211 Day.
“The landscape of need across our community changes every day,” said Annie McFadden, interim president and CEO of United Way of Summit & Medina. “And every day, 211 operators are responding to calls, learning about each caller’s specific situation, and directing them to, in many cases, lifechanging help.
“In a time when vulnerable populations face rapidly changing circumstances, 211 is a dependable, constant source of support. It’s a vital program, and it depends on community support to stay operational. I encourage anyone in our community who believes that people in need should have a place to turn to for help to support our 211.”
Here’s a deeper look into 211’s local impact.
Top requests for services
Nearly four out of 10 queries last year originated from residents asking about food/meals (29.4%) — from food pantries and hot meals to food stamps.
The second-most requested service was housing and shelter (23.2%), followed by utilities (17.5%), clothing and household items (7.1%) and employment and income (4.6%).
The top ZIP codes serviced by 211 in 2024
- 44306
- 44320
- 44305
- 44301
- 44314
Services available via 211
The United Way of Summit and Medina counties maintain a database of 1,128 services — which provide 10,210 services, from electric service payment assistance and mental health counseling to tax assistance and pregnancy resources.
Who calls 211 in Summit and Medina counties
Three out of four callers are women.
Half of all callers have children in their homes.
One out of four callers are over the age of 60.
How to access services
Trained professionals are available 24 hours a day by dialing 211 or texting your ZIP code to 898-211.
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