Got this off a web site related to finding social services in the state of Connecticut. (No particular reason for that state. It just happened to be the one that came up in my search.)

How to find a community service when you or someone you know needs help? Or where do you turn when you want to reach out and help by volunteering or donating? There are thousands of health and human services programs to help people in Connecticut. Finding the one you need can be difficult.

Can anyone enlighten me/us about this?

Richard

I called a few of my contacts over at AT&T (old SBC/SNET). 211 is legit. Used to direct callers who need help/information about suicide prevention, treating drung & alcohol abuse etc.

In my area, 211 is pointed to United Way.

Here in VA, 211 is answered with "Information and Referral" but I didn't ask what kind of information they give. 311 is a non-emergency number for the police department in DC and I believe in Baltimore as well. 511 is for highway and traffic jam information and 711 is a TDD relay number. We used to have 811 as an ANAC, but that no longer works. In some places, it's the same as dialing 911 (found that out the hard way).

Maine just started a 211 service this week its a referrel service for health and welfare support we also have 411=directory information, 511=traffic reports

we have 211,311,411,511,611=telephone repair,811 & 911 .

611= dial-a-prayer in VZ country

jsaxe

211 is legit it is still in the process of being turned up in many areas.