FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Faith Frazier
Community Relations Specialists
211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast
772-567-8900 Ext. 26
faith.frazier@211pbtc.org

Hurricane or not, 211 is here to help

May 30, 2007 - We are all very grateful that the 2006 Hurricane Season was mild by Florida standards; however, another season is fast approaching. Do you know who to call for information and so much more? Before, during, and after a hurricane, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coastis 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.

211 is a 3-digit telephone number to call for health, community, governmental and human service information and referral in Palm Beach County and throughout the Treasure Coast. 211 is available year round, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

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 health or human service needs.

211 Beach/Treasure Coast wants you to know we are prepared and here to help:

o Provide up-to-date information on distribution and feeding sites
o Guide qualified individuals to the most appropriate services based on need
o Identify emergency assistance programs available by area
o Disseminate relevant information pertaining to human service organizations via telephone and internet, including updates on local closings and openings, municipalities and transportation access
o Offer reassurance and provide supportive and crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress

With access to more than 4,200 programs, 211 provides information and referrals to health and human resource programs, crisis counseling, and other community resources. Call or check us out on the web at www.211palmbeach.org or www.211treasurecoast.org.

Also, as a hurricane approaches, visit our special hurricane website at http://hurricane211pbtc.org for updated information on resources in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties.