Governor Douglas said the funds would assure that all Vermonters have access to this valuable service. "This is a significant investment in the health and well-being of all Vermonters," said Governor Douglas. "We are confident that Vermont 2-1-1 will provide a consolidated and more efficient system of support."
"Time and time again we hear that people just don't know who to call when they need help. Calling 2-1-1 is their first step," said Andrea Livermore, Program Chair of United Ways of Vermont.
The Vermont 2-1-1 system also has the capability of monitoring trends and identifying gaps in service. In addition, Vermont 2-1-1 and the Vermont Emergency Management team are exploring how the new system can assist during crises. The 2-1-1 staff members have participated in two disaster-preparedness drills.
Vermont is the second New England state to offer 2-1-1 service. The first 2-1-1 service in the nation was launched by United Way in Atlanta, Georgia in 1997. There are now more than 169 active 2-1-1 systems throughout 32 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.
It has taken many partners to make this public-private partnership become a reality. IBM donated all the computers for the 2-1-1 Call Center. Downs Rachlin and Martin donated legal counsel. Many others contributed financial support, including Verizon, Vermont Business Roundtable, Fletcher Allen Community Health Foundation, Fanny Allen Health Foundation, and the Vermont Community Foundation. The Vermont 2-1-1 Advisory Board is comprised of representatives from 35 different organizations.
Vermont 2-1-1 can be reached by dialing "2-1-1" from anywhere in Vermont, or by visiting www.vermont211.org. The helpline staff is available Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. In Vermont call 9-1-1 to save a life, stop a crime, report a fire; call 2-1-1 for community services information and referral.
For more information on 2-1-1's nationwide status, visit www.211.org.
