CONTACT Helpline

A nonprofit organization

$10,913 raised by 45 donors

Every day throughout South Central Pennsylvania, our friends and neighbors face a crisis. Whether in need of food, shelter, utilities assistance or support, people at their lowest moments can call CONTACT Helpline’s highly trained specialists, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more than 52 years of continuous community service, CONTACT Helpline volunteers and staff have been here, ready to help callers in need to navigate the confusing world of health and human services.

211 is Here for All Parents

Mark, a single father, is trying to be the best father he can be to his six-year-old son, Owen. He never expected to become a father at nineteen. However, when his girlfriend became pregnant, he knew he wanted to be involved in his child’s life. Little did he know, he would be raising his son, Owen, alone. Owen has several medical conditions that have required Mark to miss work leading to his unemployment. Mark is now two months behind in his rent and utility bills. Mark expects to receive an eviction notice in a few days. A friend suggested that Mark call PA 211 to learn if any community resources could assist him.Like many young individuals, Mark did not want to call and speak with a Resource Navigator. Mark reached out to PA 211 by texting his zip code to 898211. He immediately received this response text: “Thank you for texting PA211. If during our texting hours (Mon-Fri 8:00 to 11:00 PM) a Specialist will respond soon. (text STOP to opt-out). To better help us find what you need, please respond with your age, gender, and why you’re texting today.” Mark answered the text providing the Resource Navigator with the information needed to assist him.The Resource Navigator completed a York County triage. The completed triage was submitted to York housing providers who will reach out directly to Mark. The Resource Navigator then texted Mark agencies that could assist him with utility assistance, employment, and childcare. These agencies included Bell Socialization Services, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services-South Central Counties, PPL corporation, and Crispus Attucks York.

Over 27,500 York residents received the gift of being heard, acknowledged and helped last year because of your support. Every day, people call CONTACT Helpline when they are facing hardships, feeling overwhelmed, and need to be heard. Many of them are struggling with the fear of being homeless or having a home without electricity, heat and water. Working parents seek daycare for their children so that they can stay employed. The elderly, disabled, and others who live alone reach out for someone to talk to about their feelings of anxiety, isolation, and the challenges they are facing.

https://www.contacthelpline.org/