211 NorCal

Connecting the Community to Critical Resources.

211 NorCal is a free, confidential telephone helpline and website that connects people with the local resources they need. People of all ages can quickly get information and referrals to health and human services in over 150 languages. We’re here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for both everyday needs and times of crisis.

How to Access 211

By Phone

From Butte, Shasta, Siskiyou, or Tehama counties, dial 2-1-1 toll-free from any phone, cell, or landline. You will talk with a live, trained service professional in your area.

To reach 211 NorCal resources from a phone outside these counties, use the county’s 800 number:

*211 Butte-Glenn is operated by HelpCentral

By text

You can text your zip code to TXT211 (898-211) to talk with a live specialist Monday - Friday from 8 am - 8 pm. This two-way texting service is available in English and Spanish.

*Standard message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out. For end-user privacy and terms and conditions of texting with 898-211, visit here.

What Types of Needs Does 211 Cover?

Because 211 brings all the current resources of a community together in one organized database, it covers all types of needs, including:

  • Food banks and food assistance, clothing closets, shelters, rent, utility assistance, and benefits screening tool.

  • Up-to-date emergency information, evacuation routes, road closures, and other resources.

  • Health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, children’s health, medical information hotlines, crisis intervention hotlines, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, and rehabilitation.

  • Financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs, and services for veterans.

  • Adult daycare, congregate meals, respite care, home health care, transportation, independent living programs.

  • Childcare, after-school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps, and recreation

mother giving daughter piggyback ride
grandmother reading story to grandson

Where Is 211 Available?

211 is currently available in the North State counties of Shasta, Tehama, Butte, Siskiyou County, and Glenn.

Thank You to Our Generous Supporters!