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Community Resiliency
The State of Our Communities
The data collected from over 16 million requests to the 211 hotline provides an in-depth look at top needs nationwide.
211 is a free, confidential service that connects people to locally available programs and resources. The millions of calls, chats, and texts are from people looking for help with stable housing, utility payments, food, mental health, healthcare, disaster recovery, transportation, and other needs.
In 2024, the 211 network responded to 16.8 million requests for help resulting in more than 18 million hyperlocal referrals for assistance based on United Way Worldwide's just-released annual 211 Impact Survey.
211 is about providing hope and support at moments when people feel most alone and unable to meet their basic needs like a roof over their head"
-Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide
211 Impact Survey
The 2024 Impact Survey - the only of its kind report that collects data from all 50 states - offers valuable insights into trends and challenges faced by households and communities across the country.
32
contacts per minute
18.1M
referrals in 2024
99%
of communities served across the U.S.
United Way Worldwide released its 2024 Impact Survey data showing the top needs of people nationwide which include:
#1 Housing
Housing assistance referrals continue to increase, nearly doubling since before the pandemic -- from 2.9 million in 2019 to 5.6 million in 2024. Housing was the need addressed through more than 1 in 4 referrals provided by 211 Community Resource Specialists, based on the latest 211 Impact Survey data.
#2 Utilities
Referrals for utilities assistance are up 12 percent since 2022 - as many people struggle to pay routine bills. When combined with housing referrals, this totals nearly 8.5 million referrals for housing and utility-related needs, which represents over 45 percent of all referrals in 2024.
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#3 FOOD
Food assistance referrals, including access to food pantries, are up 5 percent from 2023. Last year, 211 Community Resource Specialists made 2.5 million referrals for help related to food and meal assistance.
Other Top Needs
#4 Referrals for legal, consumer, and public safety assistance
#5 Referrals for mental health and substance use disorders assistance
#6 Referrals for individual, family, and community support assistance
#7 Referrals for income support and financial assistance
What You Can Do
Get Help
If you're in need of assistance, call 211 or visit 211.org to see what resources may be available in your community.
Donate
Supporting 211 helps connect people to the help they need. Make a gift to 211 today.
Partner With Us
If you're an individual or organization looking to get more involved, we can work together on solutions that make a lasting difference.
Contact Us
Media Inquiries
Looking for more information or a quote to include in your upcoming publication? Send a message to our public relations team!