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MOUNT VERNON- Pathways of Central Ohio has launched a banner campaign in downtown Mount Vernon to promote 211 as the number to call to get connected to local resources. 211 is the free, confidential community information and referral hotline, available 24 hours a day, 7 days week. Some of the services the trained, caring 211 staff can refer callers to include:
Coping with Stress/Mental Health-Coping with life crises can place added stress on individuals, marriages and families. The 211/988 Crisis Hotline of Pathways can help callers find resources in our community that can help them and their families.
Senior Citizens-The 211/988 Crisis Hotline can connect callers to resources that assist senior citizens with daily living, social activities and meal programs.
Emergency Financial Assistance-Local nonprofits may be able to assist with paying rent, working with mortgage vendors to restructure payments or paying utility bills. Other organizations can provide food, clothing and shelter.
Health care-The 211/988 Crisis Hotline can make referrals to local health care resources. There are also programs that can assist with purchasing prescriptions or obtaining health insurance for individuals, couples and families.
Public Assistance- The 211/988 Crisis Hotline can connect callers to public assistance programs such as SNAP (food assistance) and Ohio Works First.
Addiction-There are multiple programs in Knox County that can provide outpatient counseling for those wanting to address their own addiction or for those concerned about a loved one’s use. The 211/988 Crisis Hotline can provide referrals to those programs.
Residents who cannot dial 211 should call 800-544-1601 to reach the 211/988 Crisis Hotline of Pathways. Speech and hearing-impaired persons can call Ohio Relay Service at (800) 750-0750 to reach the center. The 211/988 Crisis Hotline can also help non-English speaking callers.
About 211
Launched in Knox County in June 2008, 211 is an easy-to-remember, toll-free phone number that connects callers with local community services, such as food, shelter, counseling, employment assistance, quality childcare and more. The 211/988 Crisis Hotline answers over 3000 calls annually from Knox County.
During a disaster, 211 provides critical information about evacuation routes, food and shelter. 211 is confidential and available 24 hours a day. It is also a participating center in the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988 or 1-800-273-TALK). Residents can also text 211 by sending their zip code to 898211.
The 211/988 Crisis Hotline is a program of Pathways of Central Ohio. It is funded in part by the Mental Health and Recovery for Licking and Knox Counties. It is certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and nationally accredited by Inform USA. For more information, visit www.211pathways.com.
