The History of 2-1-1 in North Carolina

The History of 2-1-1 in North Carolina

United Way of North Carolina, a local independent non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization founded in 1953, serves 60 local United Ways across the state. In 1999, United Way of North Carolina began exploring the possibilities of a 2-1-1 system.  A 2-1-1 task force submitted an application to the North Carolina Public Utilities Commission for designation of the three-digit number to be used for health and human service information, referral, and volunteer opportunities.  The Commission designated United Way of North Carolina as the “holder” of the 2-1-1 number on November 18, 1999. 

 2-1-1 is currently available in 36 counties covering approximately 62% of  North Carolina’s population including: Alamance, Alexander, Anson, Avery, Brunswick, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Chatham, Davie, Davidson, Durham, Gaston, Guilford, Forsyth, Franklin, Henderson, Haywood, Lee, Madison, Mecklenburg, New Hanover, Lincoln, Orange, Pender, Randolph, Robeson, Rockingham, Rowan, South Iredell, Transylvania, Union, Wake, Watauga and Waynecounties. Last year more than 60,000 people found help by calling 2-1-1.   Today, there is limited coverage east of I-95 which encompasses the entire coastline of the state.  This is of great concern since the North Carolina coastline has been a target for hurricanes and the disconnect that occurs after such an event.  

United Way of North Carolina is working closely with local United Ways to accelerate the statewide roll-out of the 2-1-1 system.