FULTON, NY – For those in need of human services, help is only three numbers away.
United Way of Greater Oswego County in collaboration with the state of New York, United Ways of Central and Northern New York, and Contact Community Services have brought the 2-1-1 System to Oswego County.
Dialing 2-1-1 will connect callers with the information and answers they need regarding the availability of health and human services in Oswego County and the proper way to access them.
Callers can seek assistance with an array of topics ranging from basic needs such as housing, heating and food subsidy to substance abuse, mental health issues and family issues.
Whether a crisis situation or information on where to turn to, the 2-1-1 System serves an invaluable link to all types of human services.
“We are very pleased to have such a wonderful resource as the 2-1-1 System in Oswego County,” said Executive Director of United Way of Greater Oswego County Melanie Trexler. “Locating information on human services was a difficult task that may have required several phone calls to find the correct resource. The 2-1-1 System eliminates that problem. To have one number that people can call for assistance with human services is tremendous.”
Trexler recognized the importance of collaboration on this project and praised Oswego County Legislator, District 21, Terry Wilbur.
“Terry was instrumental in bringing the 2-1-1 System to Oswego County. His dedication and commitment to his constituents is commendable. United Way is proud to have been a part of this project and appreciate the efforts of Terry, Frank Lazarski of United Way of Central New York and everyone involved in making the 2-1-1 System a reality in Oswego County,” she said.
Trexler added that 2-1-1 System would also prove to be a useful tool for elected officials and staffs at local human services agencies.
“It’s not uncommon for representatives to receive calls from their constituents or agencies to receive requests for services they do not offer. They will now be able to let callers know that dialing 2-1-1 will give them the answers they need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Trexler.
In addition to the 2-1-1 number there is also a companion website, www.211cny.com
This comprehensive website has a wealth of information regarding including a list of topics and services available and crisis hot lines for specific agencies.
“The 2-1-1 System is best way to get connected and get the answers you need regarding human services in Oswego County,” added Trexler.
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It’s good to see the county come up with something that will be beneficial to many people. I’ve had experiences where it has been difficult to get in contact with the right people for help and sometimes I’ve just given up. The only suggestion is to make it more known because not a lot of people have internet access to find out about this information and I think it will help out many people.