TOLEDO -- A little down on your luck? There's a new phone number you can call to get some help. Starting today, people who live in Lucas and Ottawa counties can dial 211 for free information about different social services.
This isn't a number you call in an emergency situation. 211 is designed for people searching for social service information and referral and volunteer opportunities.
According to United Way Board of Trustees chair, Tom Waniewski, 211 is for people who may need help with a utility bill or getting dinner on the table.
"Unlike 911 where it's life-threatening, we say 211 is life-changing. So if somebody has a life- changing incident in their life they call 211 and we'll be able to get them to the right people to help them," said Waniewski.
Wood County is working on a similar 211 program. It should be up and running within the next year.
Williams, Fulton, Henry and Defiance counties already have the 211 service.
