While the 2007 storm season was mild by Florida standards, the reality is another hurricane season is upon us. Do you know who to call for information and so much more? Before, during, and after a hurricane, 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 when disaster strikes.

211 is a 3-digit telephone number to call for health, community, governmental and human service information and referrals in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties. 211 is available year round, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, free of charge.

With access to more than 4,000 programs, individuals can dial 211 to get up-to-date information on available recovery and relief 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. Before a storm, 211 provides information on emergency shelters and answers questions about hurricane preparedness. During a storm, 211 offers reassurance for individuals who are isolated and alone, and provides crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress. After a storm, 211 helps direct qualified individuals to resources that are most appropriate to meet their unique needs, provides referrals to emergency assistance programs, including local distribution centers and meal site locations, and gathers and disseminates other relevant human service information both over the telephone and the internet.

For more information regarding services offered year round, dial 2-1-1 or visit the website at www.211treasurecoast.org. Individuals may also visit 211's special hurricane website at http://hurricane.211pbtc.org if and when a storm approaches for updated information on resources in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast.