KTVN Channel 2 - Reno Tahoe News Weather, Video - Calls to Nevada 211 up 110% Within One Year
Member Center:
There's no doubt that more people are seeking help in this troubled economy. And now, there's even more proof of that.
Officials that manage the free helpline 'Nevada 211' say their call volume is up by 100% in Washoe County.
They say it's the highest increase they're seeing in any part of the state.
Officials say they're not surprised by the calls for help. "If you look at the the employment rate in Washoe County in northern Nevada and look at foreclosure rates and what we're seeing in other types of service reductions," says Kelsey Piechocki from the United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra.
The non-profit group has call centers in Reno and Las Vegas.
Operators have access to referral information for more than 7,000 social service organizations statewide.
Officials say they've received more than 1,000 calls for referrals in Washoe County this past October.
Last year at this time they received only 522 from county residents.
So they're turning to Nevada 211 for assistance to get a referral for their next step.
Nevada 211 is helping callers with locating food banks, clothing closets, employment support services and transporation assistance just to name a few.
It's proven to be a very valuable and easy tool. "You get a live person and you explain what it is you're looking for, what you think you need and that person who's an experienced call center operator will give you referrals."
