About 2-1-1

2-1-1 is the easy to remember, three-digit telephone number assigned by the FCC in July, 2000, for community information and referral nationwide. United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta launched the first 2-1-1 service in 1997. It is expected that 2-1-1 will be available to half of U.S. citizens by the end of 2005.

The effort to bring 2-1-1 to Colorado began in February, 2001. At that time a steering committee was formed to design a 2-1-1 system for the state. This steering committee evolved into the Colorado 2-1-1 Collaborative in August, 2002.

In October 2002 the Colorado PUC approved the Collaborative's application for 2-1-1, and in April, 2003, the number became available. FirstCall was one of four pilot sites initiating 2-1-1 in Colorado. FirstCall is now United Way 2-1-1 of Larimer County. The others are Denver Mile High United Way, United Way of Weld County's Helpline, and Mesa County. It is expected that 2-1-1 will be available to all Coloradoans by fall, 2006.

For more information about the Colorado 2-1-1 Collaborative go to www.211colorado.org.

To find a current list of 2-1-1 sites nationwide go to www.211.org.

Dialing 2-1-1 from Cell or Business Phones

The following cellular phone companies offer 2-1-1 in Larimer County: Qwest Wireless, AT&T Wireless (free call) and T-Mobile. Companies who use PBX (private business exchanges) may not be set up to accommodate 2-1-1. If you are unable to access 2-1-1 from your office, contact your phone system administrator to see if your system can be programmed to make 2-1-1 calls. In the meantime, whether you are using a cell, business or residential phone, you can also reach FirstCall by dialing 407-7066.

211 and 911

211 is meant to complement 911 by filling the gap between emergencies and non-emergency requests for items like rent assistance, shelter, food, childcare, and more.

Remember:  2-1-1 is for NON-emergency assistance only. Callers needing emergency medical, fire or police aid should always call 9-1-1.