211 DISASTER RESPONSE

 

When disaster strikes, United Way and 211 are ready.
 

Whether it's a local flood, a hurricane with significant regional impact, or the local effects of a global pandemic, United Way of West Florida and 211 Northwest Florida are prepared to respond to our community's greatest challenges. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in skyrocketing unemployment and has forced many households who had never had to ask for help before to seek assistance with food, utilities, and more. Through the generosity of several corporate partners, United Way of West Florida established and administers COVID-19 Response Fund, awarding grants to partner agencies capable of providing support to our community.

In 2018, Hurricane Michael devasted Florida's northwest panhandle. From the storm's approach to its aftermath, trained 211 I&R Specialists were answering calls, providing support, and sharing information about available resources. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in skyrocketing unemployment and has forced many households who had never had to ask for help before to seek assistance with food, utilities, and more. Through the generosity of several corporate partners, United Way of West Florida established and administers COVID-19 Response Fund, awarding grants to partner agencies capable of providing support to our community.

Call data available from 211 Northwest Florida has driven decisions related to the distribution of funds to provider agencies, ensuring that they focus on the greatest needs. Contributions to this fund are assisting households that have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. 211 NWFL connects these individuals with the agencies and resources that can help. 

United Way of West Florida's COVID-19 Response Fund is made possible by the Gulf Power Foundation, Florida Blue, Beach Community Bank, Wind Creek Hospitality, Navy Federal Credit Union, Eastman Chemical Company, and support from community members.  

                                   

 

211 NWFL is available 24/7. 

The Florida Veterans Support Line, a program of 211 Northwest Florida, serves 10 counties and connects callers who are veterans or spouses of veterans with a care coordinator. The care coordinator, who is also a veteran, provides an extra level of support to ensure that the caller connects with the resources that are most likely to help. Oftentimes, the care coordinator will advocate on behalf of the client and sometimes it can be the difference between having a safe place to live and homelessness. 

The Florida Veterans Support Line is supported by the Florida Department of Children and Families, the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs, VISN-8 Veteran Healthcare Network, and the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.