LaPorte County plans to launch a 2-1-1 telephone service on Jan. 15. The 2-1-1 service is a three-digit dialing number that connects individuals in need with community-based, faith-based and government health and human service programs. According to LaPorte County United Way, which has contracted with the regional 2-1-1 center at United Way of St. Joseph County for the local service: “This free and confidential service will be available to callers 24 hours a day for a myriad of needs, including food, financial assistance, housing, shelter, legal aid, support groups, and many more.
United Way has developed a preliminary database of health and human service agencies, programs and services in LaPorte County to include in the 2-1-1 service, but agencies can still be added. To do so, e-mail r.arnett@group7even.com.
A 2-1-1 kickoff breakfast for LaPorte County business, government, education and non-profit leaders will take place on Friday, Jan. 15, at 8 a.m. at Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa. A new parallel 2-1-1 information and referral website with live chat capability will also be unveiled. In addition, “A variety of creative 2-1-1 community education and awareness marketing materials will be on display as well,” according to United Way.
