2-1-1: One of the Best Resources in Connecticut

United Way 2-1-1 is one of the best resources in Connecticut. Quite simply, it’s your one-stop connection to local services including utility assistance, food, housing, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and much more.

Dial 2-1-1 on your phone from anywhere in the state and you will reach a highly-trained call specialist that will assess your needs and provide referrals to the resources in your community. Every day, call specialists help callers find assistance for complex issues such as financial problems, substance abuse and suicide prevention and for simpler issues such as finding volunteer opportunities and donation options. 2-1-1 is free and available 24 hours a day every day of the year. Multilingual assistance and TDD access are available.

In addition to the general 2-1-1 number, there are specialized units providing more in-depth information on certain topics. The HUSKY Infoline gives callers information on the HUSKY Health Program, Connecticut’s state health insurance program. These caseworkers educate callers on the HUSKY application process, eligibility requirements, and benefits. They can also mail an application packet to callers, help people to get in or stay on the program, and assist with obtaining HUSKY services by referring callers to the right resources or by advocating on their behalf.

The HUSKY Infoline is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., toll-free to 1-877-CT-HUSKY (1-877-284-8759). Bilingual caseworkers are available.

The Child Development Infoline (CDI) provides education on development, behavior management strategies and programs, referrals to services, and advocacy and follow-up as needed.

Care Coordinators work with families to understand callers’ individual needs, connect them to the best services available, and follow up to ensure their needs are being met. They can help with concerns about general child development, challenging behaviors, and disability and health related issues.

In addition, when calling CDI, families, child care, health care and social service providers have access to many of Connecticut’s programs and services for children and their families including Birth to Three, Help Me Grow, Early Childhood Special Education, and Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs, programs that can span childhood from birth to age 21.

The Care Coordinators at CDI are available by calling toll-free to 1-800-505-7000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except on holidays. Messages can be left 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and are returned promptly. This service is free and confidential, with multi-lingual and TTY capacity.

Remember 2-1-1 when you have questions about life’s toughest problems and discover the wealth of information contained in their comprehensive database. You can dial 2-1-1 from anywhere in the state or visit their website at www.211ct.org.

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