We are all very grateful that the 2006 Hurricane Season was mild by Florida standards, however another season is here once again. Do you know who to call before, during and after a hurricane for information and so much more? 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast is ready and available to connect individuals of all ages, including many needy families as well as frail seniors to essential community resources during such difficult times.

Do you know that you can simply call 3 digits, 2-1-1, on your home phone or cell phone and receive up-to-date information and referrals to health and human service programs, crisis counseling, community resources, and disaster related services, such as recovery and relief efforts?

Do you know that nationwide 211 serves over 65% of the US population and over 87% of Florida's population? The local provider of 211 in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast is 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast.

Do you know that every call to 211 is confidential, anonymous, and FREE?

Do you know that 211 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year from anywhere in Palm Beach County or the Treasure Coast?

Do you know that 211 counselors can provide information in over 140 different languages through a translation service?

Do you know that individuals can contact 211 to get up-to-date information on available services before, during, and after a hurricane or other disaster as well as for community resources that address everyday needs?

Do you know that before a storm 211 provides information on emergency shelters and can answer questions regarding hurricane preparedness?

Do you know that during a storm 211 offers reassurance for individuals who are isolated and alone and can provide telephone counseling for people experiencing emotional distress?

Do you know that after a storm 211 helps direct qualified individuals to services that are most appropriate for their needs and provide referrals to emergency assistance programs, including local distribution centers, and they gather and disseminate other relevant human service information via telephone and internet?

Do you know as a hurricane approaches, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast has a special hurricane website, http://hurricane211pbtc.org, that is available for updated information on resources in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties?

211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast wants you to know that we are here to help.

For more information, call 211 or visit the website at www.211palmbeach.org or www.211treasurecoast.org