Free, 24/7 service connects residents to help during crisis and financial instability
February 11 is National 211 Day, recognizing the free, confidential resource that helps people connect to essential services when they need them most. Operated locally by United Way of Summit & Medina, 211 is a free, confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by dialing 2-1-1, texting a ZIP code to 898-211 or by visiting the online resource database at 211summitmedina.org. Interpretation services are available.
211 connects residents to thousands of community resources, including food and nutrition assistance, housing and utility support, prenatal and family health care, mental health services, transportation, and support for older adults. For many callers, 211 is the first step toward stability during a moment of crisis or uncertainty.
In 2025, 211 responded to 51,653 calls and 2,105 texts and emails from Summit and Medina County residents. Calls came from individuals facing immediate emergencies as well as working families struggling to meet basic needs. In addition to Summit and Medina counties, United Way of Summit & Medina operates 211 services for 6 additional counties in the region. Across the full-service area, staff handled 74,853 total calls and 2,635 texts and emails in 2025.
Many callers are part of the ALICE population; households that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. ALICE families work, earn income, and contribute to the community, yet still cannot afford essentials such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, and health care. A single unexpected expense can push these households into crisis.
Data from 211 also provides insight into emerging community needs. Annie McFadden, president and CEO of United Way of Summit & Medina, said 211 is often the first call people make when facing some of their hardest moments. “As needs continue to rise and calls become more complex, our 211 call specialists are answering the phone with compassion, skill and resilience every day. By connecting individuals and families to trusted local resources, 211 strengthens our entire community and ensures that help is always within reach. This work is at the heart of our mission, and we’re proud to stand alongside our referral partners and the dedicated call specialists who make it possible.”
In 2025, the most common requests for assistance included housing, utility assistance, clothing/personal/household needs and transportation, with housing continuing to represent a significant gap for many residents.
To support 211 in Summit and Medina counties, visit National 211 Day
About United Way of Summit & Medina:
United Way of Summit & Medina is changing the way our community tackles complex challenges. We seek out root causes and build connections that make an overwhelming system easier to navigate. We find out why people are struggling and walk side by side with them, making sure they get the help they need. We’re working to create a system that empowers people to achieve lasting success through education, financial stability and healthy lives.