The best way for you to get help quickly is to call the United Way-funded helpline, 2-1-1

2-1-1 is an easy to remember, three-digit dialing code that connects people in need with essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Calls to the helpline are answered by Community Resource Advisors who search a comprehensive database of listings and provide practical information about how to get food, money and other help from government programs and community agencies in the callers area.

In 2005-06, calls to 211 LA County increased by 25 percent to 445,814. Most callers were seeking assistance with emergency shelter, public benefits and protective services for victims of abuse and domestic violence.

Since 2004, United Ways in California have collectively supported federal and state legislation and individually provided financial and professional resources towards 100 percent access for California residents by 2010.

United Ways are also involved in the national campaign to secure $150 million in federal funding to implement 2-1-1 nationwide.