Rochester, MN – Today, February 11 (2/11) is National 211 Day – an annual observance celebrating the go-to, 24/7 three-digit (2-1-1) resource that helps millions of people in the U.S. and Canada, including those in Southeast Minnesota. The three-digit service – which has operated for over 40 years – connects information about resources and services available in one’s community.
In 2025, United Way of Southeast Minnesota responded to 5,251 calls to access help for immediate or long-term challenges. 211 is a vital resource for Southeast Minnesota residents who need assistance with food, health care, mental health, stable housing, utility payment, veteran services, childcare, and other related needs.
Other key facts about 211:
• 211 is 24/7, free, and confidential
• 211 is offered in over 180 languages
• 211 specialists offer empathetic, non-judgmental care - and these trained specialists connect individuals and families to a range of available resources to meet their underlying needs, not just the one that prompted the call, text, or email.
“When life feels overwhelming, 211 is a beacon of hope. Whether you’re struggling to put food on the table, facing housing instability, or simply don’t know where to turn – 211 is here, day and night, to guide you toward the help you need. In a time when so many are walking a financial tightrope, this free and confidential service isn’t just a phone number. It’s connection.
It’s compassion. It’s community in action,” said Jerome Ferson, President of United Way of Southeast Minnesota.
During 211 Day, United Way encourages residents in Southeast Minnesota to:
• Call, text, or chat 211 if they or someone they know needs help
• Share 211 widely with their neighbors, family, and friends to connect others to help and supports
• Advocate to your local policymakers for the importance of and need to strengthen 211
About United Way of Southeast Minnesota
United Way of Southeast Minnesota mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive. For over 100 years, United Way of Southeast Minnesota has seen how our communities’ greatest challenges are connected — and how we can bring people and resources together to address them. We meet basic needs today while working alongside community members to help create a better future for tomorrow.
That’s why we’re here, always listening and ready to respond. Working together with our neighbors, we’re strengthening local resilience and advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security for all. We fund programs that make a difference; provide free resources and referrals to anyone who may need them; and collaborate and convene with multiple sectors to address challenges.
Every day, our communities show that when people unite to take action, change is possible.
Together, we're creating a future where everyone, everywhere can reach their full potential.
About 211
211 is a 24/7 free, confidential service offered in 180 languages that connects individuals to resources and services in their local communities by phone, text and on the web. Individuals in need or who are looking for information for someone else can call 211 from a cell phone or landline. United Way supports and provides 211 services in most communities across the U.S. For more information about 211, visit 211.org.
