Pennsylvania 211: Get Connected. Get Help.™

PA 211 is a free and confidential dialing code used to quickly connect those in need with the services they are looking for, whether public or private.  It is a one-stop-shop, anything from where you can get rent or utility assistance to what summer camps or learning opportunities are available for your children. 

211 is like 411, but for health and human services information. 211 was designated for nationwide use as an information and referral phone line by the Federal Communications Commission in 2000. Since then, Pennsylvania has joined with the rest of the nation to provide this service to our communities, and have expanded 211 connectivity through text availability.  211 is designed to serve three major objectives:

1.  Connect people in need to health and human service assistance available through government programs and private non-profit organizations in their communities;

2.  Provide assistance to communities in time of disaster, allowing 911 to work primarily with first responders; and

3.  Connect volunteers and donors with organizations who can leverage these resources to meet the needs of the community.

Through 211 people connect to a wide range of services from disaster relief to utility assistance, senior citizen programs, emergency food, job counseling, youth programs and much more.   The information provided comes from the 211 statewide resource database, which is the most comprehensive source of assistance and volunteer information covering all sectors of service both private and public.  PA 211 is a service provided by United Ways across the commonwealth with support from other private funders. To learn more about the service, please visit https://www.uwp.org/programs/2-1-1.