2-1-1 is an easy-to remember telephone number for crisis management (disaster, suicide, etc.) and information referral for health and human services 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

Working with VIA LINK, Nonprofit Knowledge Works, and the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN), United Way staff is helping develop a common categorization and data base – one that will facilitate real communication across agencies in relief and recovery efforts as compared to the Tower of Babel that existed prior to Katrina.

In the event of an evacuation, the local 2-1-1 will be routed to the Baton Rouge 2-1-1. This again is facilitated through staff involvement with VIA LINK and the Louisiana Association of United Ways (LAUW). In cooperation and coordination with the leadership of the LAUW, United Way is connected with statewide disaster planning and recovery efforts. Negotiations are underway for VIA LINK to manage centralized intake and screening for future disaster recovery case management coordination.

United Way is able to effectively coordinate these activities on a local, regional, and state basis. Doing so allows them to provide the entire area with economies of scale, a consistent voice in policy matters, and a true integration of crisis intervention with essential information and referral for the public during times of crisis and need.