2-1-1 – First Call for Help

United Way of Portage County’s 2-1-1 hotline is a vital, 24/7 resource connecting
residents with local health and human services. Available every day of the year, the
hotline is designed to assist anyone in need of help, guidance, or support—especially
those who aren’t sure where to start. When someone from Portage County dials 2-1-1,
their call is answered by trained professionals who can refer them to one of 613
agencies offering over 5,000 services in our county alone.
 In 2024, Aurora residents made 201 service requests through 2-1-1, with 119 requests
already logged as of May 2025. Callers in the 44202 zip code have been connected to a
wide range of services including housing and utility assistance, employment resources,
health care, food pantries and hot meals, clothing and household goods, transportation,
and legal aid.
 Each call is more than a referral—it’s a conversation. 2-1-1 operators are trained to ask
follow-up questions to fully understand the caller’s situation and ensure every concern is
addressed. This personal, compassionate approach makes 2-1-1 an indispensable part
of United Way’s mission to support the well-being of all Portage County residents.
https://www.uwportage.org/