211 MD FAQs

Partners

 

What is 211 Maryland?

211 Maryland is the state's most comprehensive health and human services Information and Referral System. With over 7,500 resources, individuals with essential needs can get connected to local help 24/7/365. 211 Maryland is a free and confidential service, with translation available in 150+ languages.

The Maryland Information Network (MdInfoNet), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is the state-designated administrator of the 211 system in Maryland.

 

How do you keep your resource database up to date?

The comprehensive database of more than 7,500 statewide resources is updated at least once a year and often more frequently. We rely on our yearly verification, updates from agencies, and feedback from callers to connect Marylanders with the best resources for their location and the latest program qualifications at the time of their need.

Verify your organization in the 211  Maryland database, and update it.

 

How do I add my agency to the database?

As the central connector for Maryland, we welcome new organizations to our database. We accept requests from the following nonprofit and for-profit groups:

• Nonprofit and critical for-profit organizations and governmental agencies and officials providing health, social service, educational, library, employment, legal, recreational and other human services.
• Nonprofit organizations, such as religious groups, social clubs and community associations, that offer services to the community at large, not just to their own members.
• Nonprofit self-help support groups (a “self-help group” is a voluntary gathering of people who share a similar problem, condition or history).
• Nonprofit and critical for-profit, multi-state or national organizations not located in Maryland that provide health and human services to Maryland residents.
• Nonprofit organizations that advocate for human services programs and policies that support a healthful environment.

For more information and to start the application process, go here.

 

Are your 211 Maryland call specialists trained or certified?

Call center staff are certified and program accredited by the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS) and the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). Both are national, professional organizations.

Information and Referral Specialists are also educated and experienced in health and human services resources. They have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work, human services, counseling or related fields, plus at least one year of experience.

 

What types of calls do you answer?

211 Maryland can serve as the central connector for the following essential health and human services needs:

• Food
• Housing
• Emergency shelter
• Utility assistance
• Financial assistance
• Substance abuse
• Mental health
• Suicide and crisis intervention
• Healthcare
• Children and families (childcare, parenting support, supplies and clothing, school readiness)
• Tax information and preparation assistance
• Aging and disability
• Legal services
• Domestic violence, shelter and support
• Employment
• Veterans
• Transportation

 

 

 

What is the difference between the 211 Maryland United Way Helpline and 211 Maryland?

Established through state legislation, the Maryland Information Network (MdInfoNet) is the state-designated administrator of the 211 system in Maryland. MdInfoNet oversees and maintains an information and referral service network available to all Maryland residents. To connect Marylanders in all regions of the state, we rely on a network of call centers. The United Way of Central Maryland provides coverage for one area of the state. 211 Maryland utilizes other strategically placed call centers to reach Marylanders in all regions of the state.

 

How do I let others know about 211 Maryland and its programs?

We appreciate you letting Marylanders know about 211 Maryland's programs and services. You can use our program outreach cards and fact sheets. Download the marketing tools.

 

How is 211 Maryland funded?

The 211 system in Maryland is powered by the Maryland Information Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Funding is received from the public and private sector.

 

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Donations are tax-deductible.

 

How do I contact the 211 system in Maryland?

• Email: info@211md.org
• Mail: 9770 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 334, Columbia, MD 21046