Maine State Legislature Recognizes February as 211 Maine Month

Nikki Williams, 211 Maine Program Director, Sen. Trey Stewart (R-Aroostook), and Jared Gay, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for United Way of Southern Maine, pose after the resolution passed in the State Senate.

AUGUSTA, Maine— With bipartisan support in the State House and Senate, this February is officially recognized as 211 Maine Month. 211 Maine is a vital resource across the State, helping individuals find information for services that help them meet their basic needs and thrive.

The Joint Resolution recognizing 211 Maine Month was cosponsored by Sen. Trey Stewart (R-Aroostook) and Rep. Lori Gramlich (D-Old Orchard Beach).

“211 Maine is an invaluable resource that connects Mainers to essential services, from housing and food assistance to mental health support,” said Sen. Stewart. “By recognizing February as 211 Maine Month, we highlight the critical role this service plays in ensuring individuals and Maine families can access help when they need it most. I’m proud to have sponsored this resolution once again.”

Rep. Lori Gramlich (D-Old Orchard Beach) co-sponsored the joint resolution in the State House.

“As a longtime social worker, I know firsthand that ensuring Mainers can quickly and easily connect to support services strengthens our communities and improves lives,” said Rep. Gramlich. “Recognizing February as 211 Maine Month highlights the incredible work being done every day to provide guidance, resources, and hope to those in need.”

211 Specialists answered over 75,000 calls, texts, and emails in 2024. The most common needs identified through referrals included: heating and utility assistance, housing and shelter, mental health, and substance use resources.

In 2024, 211 Maine fielded thousands of contacts every month.

“211 is a critical, go-to service that provides connection and support to those who need help for a range of needs,” said Shirar Patterson, 211 Maine Board of Directors President and President/CEO of Heart of Maine United Way. “During 211 Maine Month, we aim to express appreciation to the entire 211 Maine team who provide support to help our community members and celebrate this lifeline that is helping thousands here in Maine.”

211 Specialists are based in Maine and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by texting a Maine zip code to 898-211 or by dialing 211. 211 Maine is served by a telephone interpreter service. Anyone can dial 211, press 6, say the preferred language, and a specialist will connect to an interpreter on the call.

In addition to helping Mainers find resources across the spectrum of health and human services, 211 continues its involvement in specific initiatives, including the State’s Help Me Grow system, Maine’s Opiate Helpline, Problem Gambling Helpline, answering questions about browntail moth caterpillars and COVID-19, and more.

211 Maine is a collaborative effort of the United Ways of Maine, the State of Maine, and The Opportunity Alliance as the Contact Center Partner.

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