211 Resources: Connect With Local Support
211 is a free, confidential information and referral service that helps you find health and human service resources in your community.
For residents of Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll counties, 211 provides a starting point when you need support or are unsure which organization to contact.
Call 211 to speak with a trained specialist, available 24 hours a day. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211.
Get Help With:
- Child care and family programs
- Food and nutrition programs
- Shelter, housing and utility assistance
- Mental health services
- Employment and education resources
- Health care and insurance information
- Financial and tax assistance resources
- Substance use prevention and treatment programs
- Disaster information and recovery resources
- Youth, older adult, disability and veteran services
211 provides information and referrals. Each organization determines its own eligibility requirements, funding and availability. A referral does not guarantee assistance.
For an immediate emergency or danger, call 911. 211 connects people with non-emergency resources.
Examples of How 211 Can Help You
You do not need to know a program’s name or have every detail ready. Start by explaining what you need.
You are concerned about a utility bill.
Share the type of bill, any notice you received and the deadline. Ask about organizations that may offer assistance in your area.
A family member needs more support at home.
Describe the daily activities or care arrangements that are becoming difficult. Ask about resources for older adults, people with disabilities or caregivers.
You need help finding food or housing resources.
Explain your location and what you need most urgently. A specialist can help identify possible organizations to contact.
These examples illustrate questions you can ask. They are not testimonials or guarantees of available assistance.
What to Have Nearby, If Available
Your ZIP code, a brief description of your concern and any relevant deadline can help guide the conversation. You can still ask questions if you do not have everything ready.
Before applying to a referred organization, ask which documents it needs, how to submit them and whether assistance is currently available.
Not Sure Where to Turn?
Start with the question that matters most right now. Call 211, text your ZIP code to 898211, or select the Find Help button above.
