211
What it is. A free, confidential referral line. A trained specialist finds local food, housing, utility, health, and family-support programs for you. 211 does not give assistance itself — it connects you to the agencies that do. It is a quick way to find out what is open today.
Who it's for. Anyone. No eligibility.
First step. Dial 2-1-1 from any phone. Each county's line is run by a different United Way:
| County | Operator | Other ways to reach them |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | Heart of Florida United Way (24/7, multilingual) | Text your ZIP to 898-211 · chat (opens in a new tab) · search the database (opens in a new tab) |
| Volusia | Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties (24/7) | 386-253-0564 · 211live.org (opens in a new tab) (phone and online directory; no text or chat listed) |
| Alachua | United Way of North Central Florida (24/7, 180+ languages) | 352-332-4636 · text your ZIP to 898-211 · uw211help.org (opens in a new tab) · TTY: dial 711, ask for 211 |
| Duval | United Way of Northeast Florida (24/7) | 904-632-0600 · text "Hello" to 211904 · resource directory (opens in a new tab) |
Good to know. The Duval line also offers crisis support, free tax prep, and Ride United free rides for eligible people.
Cost. Free.
Not yet confirmed: Ride United eligibility rules — ask when you call.
Program details can change. Follow the agency’s current instructions and the dates on your notices. Official links above take you to the organization responsible for the program.