CORRECTION: All calls will initially be handled through Toledo's 2-1-1 system.

By Paula Pyzik Scott

By the end of February 2024, Hardin County will be served by the call 2-1-1 information and referral service that assists some 95% of the United States and answers some 21 million requests for help every year. By dialing 211, callers are connected to a wide range of non-emergency services.

The Hardin County United Way has spent some 18 months arranging this new service. United Way Director Martha Nau invites area services to reach out to be part of the information database ([email protected]).

211 call centers connect those in need with contacts for the following areas:

The 211 community specialists discuss the caller’s needs and factors that impact opportunities such as age, whether they are a veteran and their financial status. Specialists have access to a full, up-to-date database of resources.

The consolidated service will also allow the Hardin County community to measure how requests for assistance are trending.

The Hardin County participation has been approved by the Ohio AIRS membership organization and is fully funded for a year. Some 30 letters of support were written by Hardin County organizations to help establish this service.

In addition to the 211 call system, information will also be accessible by text and on a website. 

The new 211 non-emergency referral service is an example of how the Hardin County United Way is providing county residents with services as well as collecting donations and directing funding to area programs.

Opportunities to learn more about the Hardin County United Way include the following:

March 20 - United Way of Hardin County Annual Meeting

Time: 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Location: The Varsity Venue, Kenton, Ohio
RSVP: [email protected]

June 22nd - United Way of Hardin County Golf Outing

Time: TBD
Location: Memorial Park Golf Club, Kenton, Oho
RSVP: [email protected]