Today, February 11 (2-11), we celebrate National 211 Day – an annual observance celebrating the three-digit number that helps millions of people in the U.S. and Canada – including those in South Central Michigan.
211 is a free, vital resource for residents who need assistance with disaster, food, health care, mental health, insurance, stable housing, utility payment, veteran services, childcare and other related needs. It is more than just a number, though. With 211, one phone call connects callers at any time of day or night to real people who can direct you to help and answers from thousands of health and human services agencies and resources right in your communities — quickly, easily, and confidentially.
Even further, they use statistical data (not personally identifiable information) from calls and web visits to help shed light on the nature of social needs in Michigan for government officials and decision-makers across the state.
Locally, United Way of South Central Michigan supports 211 by partnering with Gryphon Place in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo counties, and Central Michigan 211, which handles calls from Jackson, Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties.
Over the course of 2025, Gryphon place took roughly 28,163 calls, including over 14,500 from Kalamazoo County and almost 13,500 from Calhoun County. Alongside Gryphon Place, Central Michigan 211 took over 47,000 calls in the rest of our region.
“211 is a critical resource in our region, connecting neighbors to food support, housing and utility assistance as well as disaster relief, domestic violence, mental health, and many more,” said UWSCMI Senior Director of Community Impact Bethany Stutzman. “Their work ensures that service is available to thousands every year in with the help they need.”
Here are some ways you can learn more about 211 and their services:
- What is 211? (40s): https://youtu.be/ic7wD7aRnxI
- Who can use 211? (20s): https://youtu.be/GG6iPC3FVrI
This 211 Day, we encourage you to share with your network the benefits of 211 and the ways it can assist members in your community. Be sure to check out the services 211 has to offer by visiting https://mi211.org/ or dialing 2-1-1. You can also follow their Facebook Page!
