Aloha United Way 211 Resource Helpline, funded largely by generous donors, is a lifeline for the people of Hawaiʻi, offering comprehensive support, information, and referrals to empower individuals and strengthen our community. By dialing 211, callers gain access to a wide array of health and human services, ensuring that no one has to face challenges alone.
A Lifeline During Crisis: During highly vulnerable times, such as a mental health crisis, it’s especially helpful to know that by dialing a three-digit number, a caller will be connected to a real person in Hawai’i who is trauma-informed, culturally sensitive and professionally trained to ‘meet the person where they are’ offering personalized care support.
Access to Essential Services: The 211 statewide helpline connects individuals with over 1300 agencies and 4000 local programs, addressing needs ranging from food and shelter to financial assistance, childcare, and job training. The service, confidential and free, extends beyond immediate assistance, offering screening and referrals for substance use disorder support through dedicated care coordinators.
Photo: courtesy of Aloha United Way
Language Support: It’s helpful to note that 211 Helpline is operated by locals (Hawai’i residents) FOR locals. While also recognizing Hawaiʻi’s diverse population, Aloha United Way 211 provides interpretation services in over 180 languages, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to critical assistance.
Photo: courtesy of Aloha United Way
Disaster and Emergency Assistance: In times of disaster like the Maui fires, 211 becomes a critical lifeline, offering real-time information on evacuation centers, safety tips, and assistance programs. Trained community resource specialists are prepared to handle a surge in calls and ensure all available resources are directed towards supporting those affected; taking some of the burden off the 911 system so that it focuses on life-threatening emergencies in times of crisis.
Your contributions to Aloha United Way support your neighbors in accessing valuable resources via the 211 Resource Helpline.
For additional information and access to valuable resources, dial 2-1-1, text (877) 275-6569, or visit auw211.org and search.auw211.org.
It’s not just a donation; it’s a commitment to creating a stronger, more resilient Hawaiʻi for all.
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