Conversations around offering the vital service of 211 to Oneida, Herkimer, and Madison County began around 2005. Many community assessments had pointed to the need for a centralized information and referral system. In 2013, United Way of the Mohawk Valley’s staff, board and a local committee (known as 211 Mid-York Committee), rallied around making 211 a reality.
After a year of research, United Way MV was awarded the designation of bringing 211 to Madison, Oneida, and Herkimer Counties in September 2014. This designation came after more than a year of extensive research by United Way staff and committee members, including finding the best fit for the contracted call center to be 211 Mid-York’s hub.
With the vision of a first-rate, accredited information and referral service in mind, 211 Mid-York turned on the phone on January 1, 2015. With this launch 211 Mid-York joined other 211 services throughout NYS that provide state-wide service to NYS residents. In addition to 100% of NYS having 211, 92.6% of the United States also has this important service.
Now, in addition to being able to dial 211 by phone, residents can access the community’s most extensive listing of available resources and services online or by texting "HELP" to 898-211.
To maintain certification with the Alliance for Information and Referral Systems, the national organization that accredits information and referral programs, 211 Mid-York follows an Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria (PDF). This criteria outlines what characteristics qualify an organization to be listed with 211.
Consider making a tax-deductible donation to support 211 Mid-York today! 211 Mid-York’s services are free to our community, its residents, and the organizations listed our database. 211 Mid-York is funded by NYS government agency grants and donations to the United Way of the Mohawk Valley. Local donations play a critical role in fully funding 211 Mid-York and keeping this vital service available to Oneida, Herkimer, and Madison County residents.