Eric Douglas Published

WV 211 Connects People With Needed Help

A hand can be seen holding up a cell phone in front of a car dashboard. Outside of the windscreen can be seen a road curving to the right.
West Virginians can call 2-1-1 or text their ZIP code to 898-211 to connect with trained Community Resource Specialists. 
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Earlier this week Gov. Patrick Morrisey mentioned West Virginia 211 as a service for people seeking food assistance in light of the federal government shut down. Federal employees are not receiving their paychecks, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’s (SNAP) will be at least delayed for approximately 300,000 West Virginians in November. 

West Virginia 211 is a database of resources for families facing food insecurity. It’s modeled after emergency 911 or 411 for information. 

The program is operated by the United Way and it operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

West Virginians can call 2-1-1 or text their ZIP code to 898-211 to connect with trained Community Resource Specialists. 

The West Virginia 211 network covers all 55 counties and works closely with local food banks, pantries, community action agencies and faith-based organizations to keep its information accurate. 

The service includes thousands of verified listings for food, housing, utilities, childcare and more — all updated regularly to reflect real-time availability.