What is 2-1-1?
Like 9-1-1, 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember number for people in need. Not only can you dial 2-1-1, you now can TEXT 2-1-1! Texting is a great option for those who feel more comfortable communicating that way and/or may have limited minutes. It is also more private than making a call.
It’s easy to use. Simply text your zip code to 898211. You’ll receive a greeting and you can then start texting with an Information and Referral Specialist regarding any service you may need.
The service is available 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. seven days a week. It can be used for both information and referral and crisis situations.
The 2-1-1 / Crisis Hotline & Information Center phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to the entire Knox and Licking County area. When a call comes into the center, 2-1-1 staff work to explore the feelings and needs of the client, build rapport and explore alternatives that are available to them. Once the basic need of the call is established, staff then make referrals to the nearest services available for them and document the client’s information, including age, zip code, household income level and more.
The 2-1-1/Crisis Hotline & Information Center of Pathways of Central Ohio compiles a 2-1-1 Community Monthly Report, which is designed to provide some monthly statistics regarding requests received and services provided in Knox and Licking Counties. To to be added to the monthly email distribution list, contact lromano@pathwaysco.org.
Pathways 2-1-1 / Crisis Hotline & Information Center is nationally accredited by the Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (AIRS), is certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health, and is a participating center of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The 2-1-1 / Crisis Hotline & Information Center is funded by Mental Health and Recovery for Licking and Knox County, United Way of Licking County, United Way of Knox County, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Community Foundation of Mount Vernon and Knox County.