Social service access number coming in fall

Thu., March 9, 2006

Staff Reports The Spokesman-Review

Confused about where to call for housing? Mental health crises? Elderly care?

Soon, it may get easier to find services. Starting this fall, residents who need access to a social service agency will be able to call 211.

The toll-free statewide information system, which also will be used to coordinate disaster response programs, received $2.5 million in the legislative budget.

People seeking services frequently must place 10 to 12 calls before locating the right agency, said Erica Halloch, who has been overseeing the project for Spokane County United Way. United Way is partnering with Spokane Mental Health on the 211 project.

“Often people give up before they find what they need,” Halloch said. “211 is really a vehicle for accessing services.”

Several regional centers activated the number last month. The phone number currently is available to 60 percent of Washington residents.

“We are hoping to launch this sometime toward the end of the year,” said Jan Dobbs, director of urgent care for Spokane Mental Health.

Initially, the number will be available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“It makes it much easier to both give and to get help,” said Tom Page, executive director of the Washington Information Network. “211 is a way to find out the different services available if you or a family member are in need.”

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