The Indiana Association of Area Agencies on Aging (IAAAA) continues to support the enactment of the Calling for 211 Act. This act was reintroduced in January 2007, and if enacted will provide financial support for designated 211 state entities. The bill authorizes $150 million for years one and two and $100 million for years three through five. States would designate a lead entity (the Indiana 211 Partnership) to plan for full implementation and administration of the funds.
The IAAAA supports continued statewide implementation of 211 centers by the IN211 Partnership with support from state designated funds for that purpose. The Indiana General Assembly has passed House Bill 1344, which is reflected through Indiana Code 8-1-19.5. This bill created the system in Indiana and designated who can receive funding under what circumstances. Unfortunately, the funding must still be appropriated. We support further enhancement to HB 1344 and appropriations to each 211 Center to maintain basic functions.
Background
The first 211 Program began in Atlanta, Georgia in 1997 operated by the local United Way. The purpose of the program was to provide an easy to remember telephone number that would connect callers to information about health and human services available in their community. The idea has quickly spread throughout the country with support of the United Ways, community foundations and local governments. It was estimated that 65% of the country has access to 211 services at the beginning of 2008.
The 211 program in the state of Indiana was developed by the IN 211 Partnership and has expanded to cover 85% of the state. Several foundations and community organizations have assisted with funding or equipment purchases for the telephone system and computers. Ongoing funding for the 211 program in Indiana is scarce. The IN211 Partnership has been able to provide funding for the costs of routing calls to the proper centers and for weekend and evening coverage because few centers are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Current Action Needed
Federal: The basic infrastructure for 211 is not provided uniformly throughout the country, and federal legislation has been introduced to do so. Local 211s are each unique and rely on local funding to provide even basic services. That funding is usually year to year with little security for continuation.
Indiana: None at this time.
