The New York state Legislature awarded $2 million to the state”™s 211 Helpline network, operated by local United Ways, to ensure that the call centers can continue to connect individuals with health- and human-service needs with the right resources. The call volume in 2020 was up 153% over 2019. Sen. Peter Harckham (District 40), who represents communities in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties, sponsored the bill. The $2 million award was a $750,000 increase over its allocation in the ”˜21 NYS Budget.
“This funding will help 211 call centers throughout the state meet the demand from those calling for food, mortgage and rent assistance or other basic needs, as the state continues to rebound from the pandemic, said Tom Gabriel, president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, which operates the 211 Hudson Valley call center from its White Plains location.
United Way”™s 211 Helpline has nationally certified call specialists trained to answer questions and provide referrals for the health and human service needs 24/7, 365 days a year in 200 languages. For help in the Hudson Valley individuals can dial 211, text their zip code to 898211 or visit 211hudsonvalley.org.
UWWP is located at 336 Central Park Ave., White Plains. Phone 914-997-6700 or visit uwwp.org.
