Every day people in our community are facing issues that, if left unsolved, can lead to a downward spiral. 211 is our way of connecting people in need to resources as quickly and as efficiently as possible. 

Help Starts Here

Call 2 1 1  or   Text 898-211

United Way 2-1-1/UWSWLA is an easy-to-remember phone number that links people in need to relevant information. When you call 2-1-1 you will speak with a trained information and referral specialist who will help you navigate the complex maze of human services. By maintaining an accurate database of public and community-based resources, United Way 2-1-1 is able to connect you to basic services - 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and even during a disaster. Additionally, you can use the online Service Directory to search for resources near you. 

Benefits of United way 2-1-1

United Way of Southwest Louisiana is a proud partner of Louisiana 2-1-1 and works closely with the Louisiana Association of United Ways to service the parishes of Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jefferson Davis. United Way  2-1-1/UWSWLA is a single access point for every day needs and in times of crisis. For example, United Way 2-1-1 can provide resources for the following:

• Food, shelter & clothing
• Abuse/Neglect prevention & protection
• Rent/Utility/Financial assistance
• Crisis Intervention services 
• Job training
• Transportation assistance
• Educational programs
• Home health care
• Congregate meals for the elderly
• Homemaker services
• Quality childcare
• Family resource centers
• Volunteer opportunities 
• And much more...

When you call United Way 2-1-1, where are calls directed?

2-1-1 calls are answered by trained information and referral specialists within partnering non-profits located in Louisiana. The calls are directed to a provider within a geographic region. 

• We are staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Callers have access to multilingual services as well as information for the hearing impaired.
• 2-1-1 maintains a computerized Service Directory of resources and services statewide.
• We work in collaboration with non-profit agencies, faith-based organizations and government.
• 2-1-1 abides by the standards established by the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems and is endorsed by United Way Worldwide.

Benefits to  United Way 2-1-1 Users:

• One call gives you access to resources across your community. 2-1-1 is efficient, fast and easy to use.
• No more wrong numbers; no more wasted time trying to find the right resource(s).
• 2-1-1 is a confidential call; most often the name of the caller is not even taken.
• 2-1-1 maintains the integrity of the 9-1-1 system; saving that vital community resource for life and death emergencies.
• 365/24/7 availability; 2-1-1 is always there for you.
• 2-1-1 is an easy way to find or give help in your community.

Community Benefits of United Way 2-1-1:

• 2-1-1 strengthens your community by uniting the people in your area who want to help with those who need help.
• There are almost 900,000 non-profit organizations in the United States plus scores of government agencies. People looking for assistance have trouble navigating a complicated web of health and human service programs. Likewise, people who want to help often do not know where to begin.
• 2-1-1 is a useful planning tool. Based on aggregate data about the types of calls that the 2-1-1 Center receives, communities are in a better position to anticipate demand for services and mobilize resources to meet changing needs.
• 2-1-1 touches the lives of every person in the community, and whether you are in a situation where you need help or find yourself later in a situation to give help, 2-1-1 is always there for you.

Benefits of United Way 2-1-1 as a Crisis Tool:

• 2-1-1 is a critical information system, which is necessary prior to, during and after a community crisis such as an attack, flood, fire, or other local or national tragedy. Prior to a community crisis, it is critical that an information system is in place that will respond to the crisis at a moment's notice.
• 2-1-1 responds immediately during times of crisis, to field calls regarding the crisis and to direct callers to services most appropriate for their needs.
• Once 2-1-1 is implemented, it maintains a permanent presence in the community. As a result, people can find the help they need whether their needs arise a week or several years after the crisis event.

Reports for United Way 2-1-1:

• Download the Resource Database Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria

  Email United Way SWLA 2-1-1