Collier211 is a non-emergency, 24-hour hotline connecting people with local non-profits, government and religious organizations and for-profit companies who offer services on a sliding fee scale.

Special project director Mary George says the service is important because many of the people who need assistance don’t have access to a computer or may not know where to look for help.

“There is so much out there today that’s offered both through government, through private companies and through non-profits that there is the information highway and it’s very difficult to navigate,” she says.

Callers are connected to trained operators at Switchboard of Miami, who also provide information and referral services to Dade, Monroe and portions of Broward counties.

George says the volume of calls so far reflects the need.

“So we do need it and the more and more that technology has contributed to help with human services organizations, the more this just seems like a no-brainer for us,” says George.

Collier is the final county in Florida to launch a 2-1-1 service. Help is also available online at collier211.org or by calling 239-263-4211.