More than 1,000 callers received free, 24/7 referral assistance through an Athens County service hotline started in February 2010.
The 2-1-1 program, provided by the United Appeal for Athens County, was designed to offer Athens County residents a local directory assistance for information regarding services and volunteer opportunities, said Pam Harvey, executive director of the organization.
In the first 11 months of the program
we have received 1 098 calls Harvey said. That is a very good number for only being around (about) a year.
The top referral categories since last February were related to assistance with electric service payments, rental payments and food pantries, Harvey said.
A resource specialist for the area compiles lists of service-based organizations, which is then plugged into a server to be used when a caller requests information through the hotline, said Justin Gray, Athens County's resource specialist.
The compiled lists are not just information that can be found through a Google search, Gray said.
I have my finger on the pulse of Athens
Gray said. I really have to stay on top of my game.
A majority of the information Gray places on the server is provided through the United Appeal various partners organizations, according to the United Appeal website.
The United Appeal, a non-profit organization, is partnered with about 12 other Athens organizations such as United Seniors of Athens County, the Athens County Red Cross and Athens County Habitat for Humanity, according to the website.
The United Appeal helps raise money for its partner organizations, which then send Gray information about upcoming events, fundraisers and news, Gray said.
By placing a call to the hotline, callers can receive information regarding United Senior services such as van transportation, support services and wellness programs, said Michael Turner, executive director of United Seniors.
Although the service hotline is still new, Harvey said it has been well received so far.
(The number has become) a way for people to get help or give help
Harvey said.
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Kelly Gifford
