news-record.com

It really is as easy as dialing 2-1-1.

The one-stop United Way information and nonemergency referral service for community resources is now accessible by dialing 2-1-1 using most of the larger cell phone providers — which previously required dialing a toll-free number and then the three digits. Calling from household telephones requires dialing only 2-1-1.

“We know that most people, their primary phone is their cell phone versus a land line, and that means the services will be extended to more people,” said Jenny Stokes, the spokeswoman for the United Way of Greater Greensboro.

The free, confidential, bilingual service links individuals with thousands of health and human services, and can save callers the time and frustration of searching the phone book or the Web to find community organizations and government agencies.

The service, accessible all day, every day, is available to cell phone users with Alltel, AT&T, Nextel/Sprint, T Mobile/SunCom, US Cellular or Verizon as a provider. For those using another plan, the toll-free number to access help is (888) 892-1162.

“It links people to affordable quality child care, after-school programs, senior services, counseling, so it’s really an opportunity for someone to dial one number and get a multitude of services,” Stokes said.

Calls to 2-1-1 have steadily increased in the Piedmont Triad since February, and with the cold months ahead, the numbers will continue to rise, said Keith Barsuhn, executive director of the United Way of Greater Greensboro.

The 2-1-1 service also provides information about volunteer opportunities.

Contact Nancy H. McLaughlin at 373-7049 or nancy.mclaughlin@news-record.com