The Connect2Help agency has always been a resource for Central Indiana residents, but due to changes in the economic landscape, that need has increased.
Since the early 1900s, Connect2Help, an information referral network, has grown from a resource book, now called the Rainbow Book, to the 926-HELP number and the additional 211 number. The 211 number is a direct and immediate human service resource, similar to the emergency 911 number.
When a caller uses the 211 resource number, they are connected to a Connect2Help staff member. Their issue is assessed and the caller is directed to the appropriate path based on their need.
Anything a person could ever need, a 211 representative can help. Whether it’s a new resident needing help finding a school, help with taxes, gambling or drug abuse help, or finding a day care, calling 211 saves time and frustration. The Connect 2 Help center has over 25,000 resources.
During the winter months, Connect2Help is mostly used to help with rent, utility payments and basic needs such as shelter, food and clothing. Each staff member is trained to assist any type of caller. The organization is also accredited to take suicide and domestic violence calls.
The recent decline in the economy has not only increased calls for help but has ushered in callers that have never used such resources before.
“A lot of times people think 211 is for poor people or those with mental health issues. The reality is, if you have a teenager addicted to drugs, no matter how much money you have, you’re not going to know what to do,” explained Lynn Engel, president and CEO of Connect2Help. “I helped on a call with a woman with a six figure income which is now all gone. She has no survival skills. She has to start at square one.”
As more and more Central Indiana residents lose jobs and homes, resources Connect2Help representatives normally send callers to are also falling on hard times. There has been increased demand and a decrease in available resources and money to help those truly in need.
“When the agency we send them to is strapped with resources they want to provide, we’re back to square one. They keep sending you around in circles because they can’t help. People get tired of that especially when you’re already stressed, you’re hungry and you’re about to lose your home,” said Lee Martin, a Connect 2 Help staff member.
To aid the resource shortage, local funders have pooled their finances together to create the Community Economic Relief Fund (CERF). The additional $3 million will help supplement community agencies such as Meals on Wheels and local shelters 211 callers are directed to.
Since the announcement of the supplemental funding, Connect2help representatives have had an excess of over 1,000 calls per day of people needing assistance. Joy Owen, manager of Information Referral (INR) and Crisis Services states every available representative is on the clock and asks that callers are patient.
Callers should also note that in some instances they may not receive the exact help they’re looking for. No one’s going to ask for a pay stub at a homeless shelter, but that information may be necessary when asking for utility payment assistance.
“Good news or bad news, when a person hangs up with us, they’re going to know where they stand,” said Engel.
Whether a person believes they qualify for a resource or not, they are encouraged to at least try. Those who have not been affected by the recent economic downturn are also encouraged to give whatever they can to the United Way of Central Indiana or other charitable organizations. The CERF fund has helped a great deal, but the money won’t last forever.
The 211 or 926-HELP numbers are free, confidential and accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Services are available in English and Spanish.
For more information about Connect2Help visit www.connect2help.org.
