What is 211 Monterey County?
211 Monterey County, a program of United Way Monterey County, is the comprehensive information and referral service for Monterey County. In 2024 we handled over 13,300 contacts which connected callers and texters with information about health and human services available to them.
211 Monterey County phone and text service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 211 is available in 220 languages through phone interpretation services.
During times of disaster, 211 provides incident specific information in coordination with local emergency services, including road closures and shelters both locally and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is 211?
A: 211 is a FREE service that connects community members to information about critical health and human services available in their community. 211 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 2-1-1 utilizes both bilingual Call Specialists and a phone based translation service to offer 211 information and referral in over 150 languages. 211 also provides incident specific information during times of disaster, including road closures and shelters.
Q: How can I access 211?
A: BY PHONE: Dial 211 from a landline or cell phone in Monterey County or by dialing our toll-free number (833-814-1211) or local number (831-886-0290 or 831-417-7090). BY TEXT: Text your zip code to 898-211. ONLINE: Search the 211 resource database online at www.211montereycounty.org (or by clicking “Home” on this page).
Q: What if I need to find services in another area?
A: When you dial 211, let the Call Specialist know the area you need services for and we will gladly give you the toll-free number to the 211 service for that area. You can also find the toll free number for 211 services across the country at http://www.211.org.
Q: How does calling 211 work?
A: The 211 dialing code has been designated by the Federal Communication Commission for community information and referral services, just as 911 is set aside for emergency services. When you dial 211 from a landline or cell phone, your phone provider directs your call to the local 211 provider.
Thank You to 211 Monterey County Supporters
211 Monterey County provided by United Way Monterey County in partnership with County of Monterey.