Culver’s of Rock Falls and Dixon to host United Ways' 2-1-1 fundraiser Feb. 11

DIXON — Knowing who to call is crucial in times of crisis. While 911 is reserved for life-threatening emergencies, what if you find yourself unable to pay your electric bill, need childcare or require legal assistance?

For Sauk Valley residents, the answer lies in a simple, three-digit phone number: 2-1-1. This free and confidential information and referral service connects individuals to the help they need.

National 2-1-1 Day, celebrated annually on Feb. 11 (2/11), highlights the significance of this service. Serving Whiteside and Lee counties' residents, 2-1-1 operates 24/7, providing access to essential health and human services by text, online and over the phone.

United Way of Lee County and United Way of Whiteside County maintain an extensive health and human services database in the Sauk Valley area. Highly trained contact specialists are available every day to assist callers with issues, including food insecurity, housing crises, homelessness, mental health and substance use. With a database featuring over 1,000 programs and services, 2-1-1 is the go-to resource for Sauk Valley residents seeking assistance.

Beyond the 2-1-1 phone number, the 2-1-1 website (211illinois.org) is continuously updated with advanced search features, making it even easier for community members to find resources. Texting is also an option; simply text 898-211 to reach the 2-1-1 support specialists.

UWWC, UWLC and Culver’s are joining forces to celebrate 2-1-1 Day on Feb. 11. Visit Culver’s in Rock Falls or Dixon and mention “2-1-1 Day” to receive special $2.11 concrete mixers or cheese curds, and remember to call 2-1-1 when social service help is needed.

2-1-1 is a free health and human service information and referral service, maintaining a continuously updated database of more than 300 agencies and 1,000 programs and services. Free, confidential assistance is available 24/7, online at 211illinois.org, over the phone by dialing 2-1-1, or via text at 898-211.

2-1-1 provides services with support from United Way of Lee County and United Way of Whiteside County.