A family needs to find a doctor who speaks Spanish.
A new mom needs advice caring for her newborn.
A hardworking father with two young daughters can’t pay his utility bill.
Parents of three kids need help finding a larger place to live.
Depression is making it hard for one woman to function day to day.
A young couple is tired of renting and decides to take control of their finances and to save for a home of their own.
Where can they turn for help? They could just be stuck, not knowing where to turn or how to start. Or they could start calling community agencies one by one, until someone finally says, “Yes, we do that.”
Or they can make one simple call to Delaware 211 and talk to a resource specialist who has deep and broad knowledge of the resources available and personal contacts with hundreds of caring persons throughout our state who will do all they can to assist the caller. This is what Delaware 211 does.
We could not meet the diverse needs of individuals and families without our dedicated partners who keep us abreast of the services they provide. Delaware 211 works collaboratively with local organizations and agencies to create perhaps the most complete and robust resource list in the state.
If we did nothing else, just compiling such a comprehensive resource would be an incredible value. But with the human touch of some of the most dedicated and caring individuals you’ll find anywhere, Delaware 211 is an invaluable service to people in need.
When I think about all the people who have called 211 for help — especially since the beginning of the pandemic — I’m overcome by how difficult some people’s lives can be.
Two weeks ago, we helped 1,255 people; last month, there were 4,355 calls; and during the pandemic, we assisted more than 114,000 callers (March 1, 2020-Jan. 1, 2022).
The numbers show the degree of need that exists all around us. But each of those numbers stands for a person who didn’t know where to turn for help. A person who had hope that they’d find a no-judgment zone and an understanding ear at Delaware 211. A person whose troubles may have been a little less burdensome after talking to someone at 211.
I, myself, am grateful every day that I can be part of the remarkable team of caring people who listen to the heart-wrenching stories, who give their all every day and who have the stamina to keep coming back.
On Feb. 11 each year, we celebrate Delaware 211 Day. It’s a day set aside to express gratitude to our team, to our many advocates and supporters, to our partners in state of Delaware government and to all of you who donate to United Way of Delaware to support our work. Thank you, one and all.
And mark your calendars now for Feb. 11, 2023 — Delaware 211 Day next year.
Donna Snyder White is the vice president of financial stability for the United Way of Delaware.
