2-1-1 new number to call

United Way Media Advisory



Media contact:

Maria Stokes, United Way

415-808-4264, mstokes@uwba.org



Dial 2-1-1 for Energy Bill Assistance



SAN FRANCISCO, December 17, 2008 ˆ As cold temperatures descend on the

Bay Area, residents who need help paying their PG&E bills can dial 2-1-1 to

find energy assistance programs that serve the region. 2-1-1 referral

service is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day in more than 150

languages.



Residents who cannot dial 2-1-1 should call 800-273-6222 to reach United

Way's 2-1-1 call center. For the hearing impaired, dial 415-808-4440 (TTY)

or 7-1-1.



2-1-1 specialists can answer questions such as:

 How do I apply for energy assistance?

 What are the eligibility requirements?

 Is there a "warming center" in my neighborhood?

 Do I qualify for other kinds of assistance or community services?



NOTE: B-roll video footage of the 2-1-1 call center is available upon request.



About 2-1-1

Launched throughout the Bay Area in February 2008, 2-1-1 is an easy-to-

remember, toll-free phone number that connects callers with local community

services, such as food, shelter, counseling, employment assistance, quality

child care and more. During a disaster, 2-1-1 provides critical information

about evacuation routes, food and shelter, as well as support with finding

new jobs and permanent housing during long-term recovery. 2-1-1 is

confidential and available 24 hours a day in more than 150 languages. 2-1-1

Bay Area is operated by United Way, Eden I&R, and Contra Costa Crisis

Center. For more information, visit www.211BayArea.org.