2-1-1 iPhone App

There are many great applications out there that serve all types of purposes that allow you to do things, such as: read a novel, edit movies and pictures, find the perfect recipe for your next dinner date, and so on. What about an app for someone who is in need of essential human services? There is now an app for that, too.

Various United Ways have created apps for their 2-1-1 service, which provides assistance to people in need of human services. A 2-1-1 app for the state of North Carolina, called “NC 2-1-1,” makes it easy for people to find community resources across the entire state. You can search by service and refine it by your location. You can also make the resources you use most often “favorites,” and can share the resources by texting or e-mailing them to family and friends. 2-1-1 apps can be found for areas in Arizona, Florida, and Washington, as well.

While I found the idea of an app that helps people locate human services to be useful, I questioned how many people in need of the services would be able to afford an iPhone to use these 2-1-1 apps. So I walked down the hall to Kristin’s office and had her download the NC 2-1-1 app so I could try it out.  I would have downloaded it myself but she has more data on her plan than I do, but that’s another story for another time. I was surprised to find such a large variety of services in which 2-1-1 can connect someone. From basic needs, such as dental services, to home repairs, a job search, or legal assistance, 2-1-1 is a wonderful resource for everyone.

After learning more about 2-1-1 and what it provides, I realized how helpful and important an app for 2-1-1 can be and encourage every United Way to offer this app. Visit the iTunes app store and search 211 or click here to learn more about the NC 2-1-1 app and consider creating one for your United Way’s 2-1-1 service.