United Way To See an Increase in 211 Calls Over The Holidays

One local organization is continuing its effort to combat the growing hunger problem in our area.

Each day, dozens of people from Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan counties turn to the United Way’s 211 service for help. The numbers are in for the month of October, and once again food assistance tops the list. The United Way received more than 900 calls last month, and nearly half of those were food-related, followed by requests for utility assistance. Executive Director, Meg Deedrick, said those numbers are only expected to increase as the holiday’s approach.

“What we anticipate seeing in November is an increase in utility assistance as the weather gets colder, we tend to see an increase in utility assistance, there also could be an increase in request for shelter,” Deedrick said.

There are also volunteer opportunities available through 211. If you want to give back this holiday season, but aren’t sure where to start, Deedrick said to call 211 and they’ll lead you in the right direction.

“We certainly want to be here for folks that need help with holiday assistance, but also we can be here for folks that want to give holiday assistance, and so if they are looking for a place to volunteer and give back they can always call 211 to see where they can get plugged in,” Deedrick said.

If you’re in need, Deedrick said there is a complete list of resources available at 211.org. Otherwise, the call center is open 24-hours a day, seven days a week.