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Need Help Now? CALL 211 on your phone. You can also TEXT your zip code to 898211.

Mission, Vision & History

Mission

Illinois 211 serves as the statewide gateway connecting all people and organizations to high-quality health and human services information and resources, 24/7/365.

Woman smiling with crossed arms

Vision

Expand 2-1-1 coverage in Illinois by partnering with not for profits and government organizations to connect people and organizations to community services, disaster relief services, and volunteer opportunities.

Timeline

1999

211 National

The 211 number is donated to the United Way of Atlanta. 211 service begins operation.

2000

211 National

The 211 number was set aside by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as the national number for Health and Human Service Information and Referral.

2003

211 Illinois

The Illinois legislation created the Human Services 211 Collaboration Board to designate the three-digit code 211, to existing I&R services statewide.

2009

211 Illinois

211 Service Act became law establishing a “Lead Entity” for planning and implementation of 2-1-1 in Illinois.

2010

211 Illinois

211 Illinois was selected as “Lead Entity” to manage the expansion of 211.

2023

211 Illinois

Awarded $1.8 Million in state funding to support 2-1-1 services in Illinois.

2024

211 Illinois

Awarded $3 Million in state funding to support 2-1-1 services in Illinois.