February 11 Is 211 Day: A Lifeline for Our Community
Every day, thousands of people across the Greater Lehigh Valley face urgent challenges. When housing is unstable, food is scarce or a crisis feels overwhelming, knowing where to turn matters. That’s why February 11, known as 211 Day, is an important opportunity to recognize PA 211 and the role it plays in connecting people to critical support.
PA 211 is a free, confidential service available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It connects residents to essential health and human services, including housing assistance, food access, utility support, transportation and more. In moments of uncertainty, 211 serves as a trusted starting point for help.
While the total number of connections fluctuates year to year, the need for support through PA 211 remains significant and evolving. In 2025, housing and shelter continued to be the most requested services, while requests for food, health care, utilities and other essential needs increased by 52% from 2024, signaling growing pressure on families across the Greater Lehigh Valley.
211 by the Numbers
- 15,390 connections to resources through the PA 211 health and human services helpline
- 62.6% of requests related to housing and shelter
- 37.4% of requests for food, health care, utilities and other needs, a 52% increase from 2024
PA 211 is powered by trained resource specialists who guide callers through available options and connect them with local programs. This work is strengthened through partnerships that expand both access to services and pathways to opportunity.
One such partnership is with Bloom for Women, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation. Through Bloom’s Flourish Workforce Development Program, survivors are trained to work on the PA 211 call line, offering compassionate support to others while gaining valuable skills and meaningful employment.
This collaboration reflects how 211 does more than respond to crisis. It helps build resilience. Survivors bring lived experience, empathy and insight to their work, while PA 211 provides a supportive environment and clear pathways toward economic stability. Together, they demonstrate how community solutions can meet immediate needs while creating long-term impact.
On this 211 Day, we recognize the essential role PA 211 plays in our region. It is a lifeline for individuals and families and a powerful example of how partnership, compassion and connection help our community move forward.