Call 211 to connect with Portland shelters [Press Release]

For Immediate Release
September 13, 2010

Multnomah County, Oregon - Over the weekend, the New York Times wrote about the dramatic increase in shelter placements across the United States. As in the rest of the country, many Portland metro residents are homeless or are on the brink of homelessness. As the winter months approach, anyone facing a night on the streets can call 2-1-1, toll-free and anonymously, to be get connected with a shelter.

In addition to current availability, starting November 1, 211info is extending its hours to 8am to 10 pm on weekdays and 10am to 10pm on weekends to accommodate those needing shelter. Call specialists at 2-1-1 will place individuals and families in winter shelters and warming centers based on availability.

Last year, a partnership comprised of nonprofit and governments agencies served more than 85 families in Multnomah County winter shelters. The organizations include: Multnomah County Social Services, the Portland Housing Bureau, Human Solutions, Goose Hollow Family Shelter, Common Cup and 211info.

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Contact:

Matt Kinshella, External Relations Coordinator
503-416-2649
matt@211info.org

About 211info
211info is a nonprofit that connects the people of Oregon and Southwest Washington to the community resources they need. Last year, people relied on 211info more than 260,000 times for referrals to food, shelter, housing and utility assistance, counseling and much more. 211info operates 2-1-1 -- the free, the easy-to-remember health and community helpline, in addition to maintaining an online database with more than 4,200 resources. 2-1-1 coverage extends to eight counties in Oregon and four counties in Southwest Washington. 211info is leading Oregon’s efforts to join 28 other states that provide statewide 2-1-1 coverage.

211info is a strategic partner of the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. For more information, visit www.211info.org. Follow us at: www.facebook.com/211info and www.twitter.com/211info.