CCSi News & Information

2-1-1 cuts through the maze of Maryland’s estimated 500 toll-free and other “help” numbers for health and human services

July 28, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) today announced an important step forward in her effort to put fiscal year 2010 funds in the federal checkbook for Maryland 2-1-1. Senator Mikulski announced $800,000 to expand 2-1-1 Maryland, the state’s 24-hour health and human services information and referral service, from a pilot program to a permanent system.

Senator Mikulski is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee. She requested the funds in the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Bill, which was approved at the subcommittee level today.

“During these difficult economic times, more Marylanders than ever are in need of help with basic needs such as energy costs, housing, food, health care, social support services, and mental health related services. 2-1-1 Maryland helps people cut through the maze of Maryland’s myriad toll-free numbers and get people connected to the information they need fast,” Senator Mikulski said. “As Maryland’s senior senator, I will continue to fight to deliver federal funding for investments like this one.”

2-1-1 Maryland is a simple and quick link to 365 day-a-year, 24-hour information and referral services. It streamlines access to health and human services by cutting through the maze of Maryland’s estimated 500 toll-free and other “help” numbers. By calling 2-1-1, Marylanders can get expert assistance for a range of health and human service problems in more than 150 languages. One call leads to the right resources and information the first time. 2-1-1 also partners with 911 and first responders during crises and emergencies.

In the next step of the Appropriations process, the full Appropriations Committee will consider the Senator Mikulski’s funding request as part of the Fiscal Year 2010 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill. Once approved, the bill will go to the Senate floor for a vote, which has not been scheduled.

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Click here to view the original press release from Senator Mikulski's office.