Need help? Choose from four easy ways to reach 211 Wisconsin.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about 211? Here are answers to common questions we receive, both from our callers and our providers. If you have a question and don’t see the answer below, or if you want additional information, call us anytime by dialing 211 (or 877-947-2211) or contact us now.
What is 211?
211 is a quick and easy way to find information and get referrals for thousands of health and human services programs across Wisconsin. 211 is also available nationwide and in parts of Canada. Learn more.
How does 211 work?
Anyone can call 211 at any time. 211 information and referral specialists are trained to assist callers seeking information or dealing with all types of challenges related to housing, utility shutoffs, family crisis, legal issues, alcohol and other drug recovery, employment concerns, and more. 211 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in over 180 languages. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211, or chat with us.
When I call 211, what do I ask?
Our friendly information and referral specialists will meet you where you are at — whether you just want an agency’s phone number or need help navigating complex issues and creating an action plan. Start by telling them your most pressing needs. They are trained to ask the right questions to get to the underlying causes of your needs.
Why can’t I find a specific program or service when I search the database?
Our database has information on thousands of services across Wisconsin. If you can’t find what you need through online searching, dial 211 at any time to connect with an information and referral specialist who can help.
Is my 211 call confidential?
211 will not share any of your personal data with outside organizations or agencies unless we have your consent or fear for your life, or someone else’s life, is at risk. During our interactions, we will ask for your name and ZIP code to help us serve you and find resources close to you, but you are only required to share information you feel comfortable disclosing.
Do I have to pay to use 211?
It is completely free to call, text, chat, or search 211. If you are calling from a cell phone, your normal charges such as texting rates or minutes from your cell provider may apply.
Does 211 Wisconsin have an app?
Yes. You can download our app on Google Play or the App Store for 24/7 access to services throughout Wisconsin. The app allows you to browse anonymously or register and bookmark community programs that interest you. Learn more.
Why can’t I reach 211?
Some cell phone service providers don’t connect to 211 as well as others. If your phone does not recognize the three-digit dialing code “211”, call our toll-free number 877-947-2211. Once you connect with a 211 information and referral specialist, inform them that you were unable to use the 211 number. They will work with you to resolve the issue.
Who funds 211?
211 Wisconsin is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization managed by United Way of Wisconsin, the statewide organization providing member support services to the local and independent United Ways in Wisconsin. 211 is mostly supported by local United Way organizations, other local and regional partners, statewide grant projects, and individual contributions. Learn more about how you can support 211 Wisconsin.
Why isn’t there a 211 center in my community?
211 Wisconsin is made up of eight regional contact centers across Wisconsin. Though these centers are located in St. Croix, La Crosse, Madison, Milwaukee, Wausau, Wisconsin Rapids, Green Bay, and Menasha, they collectively serve the entire state. Our contact centers partner with local agencies to maintain and continually update the resource database for their communities. 211 is also available in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and much of Canada. Learn more about National 211.
Why should I list my services with 211?
Listing your agency in the 211 database allows more people to find and connect with your services. When someone calls 211, they will not only hear about the great services you offer, but our information and referral specialists will walk them through your eligibility requirements and other information to better prepare them to connect with you. Additionally, we’ll share your organizational information with our data sharing partners such as 988, Department of Workforce Development, and regional health systems — giving your services even greater exposure. Learn more about the benefits of being a 211 Wisconsin partner.
How often is the 211 database updated?
Maintaining the 211 database is a continual process for the dedicated resource managers and staff across our eight regional centers. We depend on the involvement of agency professionals and service providers to assist us in keeping this database an accurate reflection of what is available in Wisconsin. Learn more.
How do I update my listing?
Service providers may suggest a revision to a current listing by clicking on “Submit a Revision Request” within any listing in our database. 211 resource managers will follow up with a trusted contact at the service to ensure data accuracy.
Who can update my organization’s information in the 211 database?
Only verified contacts from service providers can make updates to your organization’s 211 listing. However, anyone can suggest changes and updates to your listing by clicking “Submit a Revision Request” on the listing. One of our dedicated resource managers will contact your agency to confirm the updates are accurate. We also follow a detailed inclusion/exclusion policy for adding new services to our database.
Why can’t I find my program or service when I search the 211 online database?
Our database has information on thousands of services across Wisconsin. If you can’t locate a program using our basic search, try our guided search or advanced search feature to locate the service. You can also always dial 211 at any time to connect with an information and referral specialist who is standing by to assist. If you think your agency or service is missing from the database, visit our Get Listed page to submit your agency details to be added into the database.
