United Way 211: One Call. Countless Connections.

By Jay Santos

On February 11, 2026, communities across the country recognized National 211 Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of this essential service and the impact it has on individuals and families every day. The date itself, 2/11, serves as a reminder that help is always just three digits away. National 211 Day encourages residents to learn about 211 before they are in crisis and to share the information with friends, family, and neighbors.

One of the cornerstone services of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is United Way 211, an often underutilized but powerful resource that has supported Southwest Floridians for many years.

United Way 211 is a free, confidential service that connects people to trusted local resources for needs such as food, housing, healthcare, childcare, senior services, and financial assistance. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, 211 links callers with trained specialists who conduct a brief assessment and provide personalized referrals in more than 180 languages. Although often most visible during emergencies, 211 supports residents every day by helping them find solutions quickly, reducing stress, and preventing small problems from becoming major crises.

During public health emergencies or severe weather, 211 is activated by Lee County Emergency Management as the community’s Emergency Information Hotline, providing accurate, real-time information. While this role is critical, it represents just one part of 211’s broader, year-round mission.

United Way 211 works closely with nonprofit partners, local governments, and service providers to ensure information remains accurate and resources are current, strengthening the entire social services network.

National 211 Day is a reminder that knowing about 211 before a crisis can make all the difference. By saving the number, sharing it with others, and using it when needed, we strengthen our entire community.

If you remember just one thing on February 11, and every day after, remember this: help is only three digits away. Dial 2 1 1 or 239.433.3900.

211 is #HereForYou.

About Jay Santos: 

Jay Santos is a Relationship Manager with Key Private Bank, partnering with families, business owners, and nonprofit leaders to help them grow, preserve, and transfer wealth through a clear, personalized plan. Outside of work, he’s deeply involved in the Lee County community through volunteering and coaching youth and high school girls flag football, while also supporting United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties, the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, and serving on the Cape Coral Charter School Governing Board, leading with a simple mindset: see a need, fill a need.

About United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in our community. Through fundraising, resource distribution, volunteer engagement, and information and referral services, United Way helps individuals and families thrive. For more information, call 239.433.2000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org.

About 211

211 is a free, 24/7 service connecting individuals to local resources by phone, text, or web. Available in 180 languages, 211 is supported by United Way in most U.S. communities. To reach our local helpline, dial 211 or call 239.433.3900. For more information, visit 211.org.