Dear Editor,

Republicans and Democrats should be able to agree on one thing – no matter whether it’s called FRAN, BONNIE, FLOYD OR KATRINA – everyone should have access to help in times of disaster.
Based on this shared belief and the strong bi-partisan support the Calling for 2-1-1 Act has received in Congress, we ask both House and Senate members to act now and pass the Calling for 2-1-1 Act.

What is 2-1-1? Just as 9-1-1 connects callers with emergency services, 2-1-1 connects people to important human services from a range of nonprofits, government and faith-based agencies. During disasters, 2-1-1 becomes a central information source for volunteers, donors and those affected by disasters. Where do you find a sandbag, water, and shelter or food assistance? Call 2-1-1. It’s easy, fast and effective.

Plus, 2-1-1 is in great demand! In 2009, the Triangle had 14,561 callers to the 2-1-1 line. That same year, there were more than 16 million calls to 2-1-1 across the United States.

But 2-1-1 is more than just about the numbers. To Barbara, 2-1-1 was the lifesaving call that got her out of her home and away from her abusive spouse. Allen’s 2-1-1 call was made as he watched his home burn to the ground. Louise called because with being a diabetic and her husband having Alzheimer’s, she was unable to get to the grocery store for food.

2-1-1 provides speedy access to information about job training, educational resources, housing and food assistance and so much more. And, 2-1-1 complements and supports government programs to assist military members and their families.

Yet, despite the ever growing demand for 2-1-1, limited resources remains the key barrier to nationwide implementation. A fully realized 2-1-1 system will not happen without the support of the federal government, in partnership with states.

The time is now. The hurricane season is upon us. Help us spread access to 2-1-1 in our state by asking your Congressional representatives and senators to get the job done. It’s time to rise above the partisanship and show the American people we can work together. Let’s pass the Calling For 2-1-1 Act now.

You can easily find out who your congressional leaders are by going here and inserting your zip code. Act now and act quickly so all who need help find it!

Sincerely,

Craig Chancellor
President and CEO
United Way of the Greater Triangle
Research Triangle Park, NC