Need help? Text 2-1-1

Idahoans seeking information about health and human services can now text for answers.

Beginning today, residents looking for resources and referrals from 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine's statewide information network can text their inquiries along with their zip codes to 898211.

Agents at the 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine connect people in need with government, faith-based and community resources.

"The goal of the Idaho CareLine is to help Idahoans dealing with a crisis to get the resources they need," said Alex Zamora, 2-1-1 human services program specialist and supervisor. "But trying to make a phone call while dealing with a stressful situation is not always simple or feasible. Our new texting capacity allows patrons to send a text and get a real-time response."

When a caller sends a text to 898211, a 2-1-1 agent will use the zip codes to search the database for appropriate local referral information. The texting technology will automatically break up longer messages into multiple texts to make sure all the information is received. Standard text messaging rates may apply and will be based on an individual's cellphone service plan.

Last year, the Idaho CareLine handled more than 150,000 calls.

The service's comprehensive database includes programs that offer free or low-cost health and human services or social services, such as rental assistance, energy assistance, medical assistance, food and clothing, child care resources, emergency shelter, and more.

2-1-1 Idaho CareLine is staffed from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays.

For information about 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine, dial 2-1-1 on your phone, text your zip code to 898211, or go to 211.idaho.gov. You also can like 211IdahoCareLine on Facebook, or follow @211Idaho on Twitter.