Background

In July 2000 the Federal Communications Commission assigned the three-digit dialing code 2-1-1 for the exclusive purpose of providing widespread access to community information and referral services. Once described as "elegant in its simplicity," 2-1-1 is an easy to remember phone number linking callers in need to available health and human service programs. Currently, there are 2-1-1 systems operating in 46 states reaching roughly more than 240 million Americans or approximately 80% of the US population.

Locating basic resources such as food, shelter, employment, or health care may mean calling dozens of phone numbers, then struggling through a maze of agencies and services to make the right connections.

During the devastating flood in Earlimart, CA and debilitating freezes of 1990 and 1999, it became evident that a centralized clearing house for information and referral during disasters in Tulare County was urgently needed. In response to those needs, as well as to the continuing need for a central source of up-to-date information, United Way of Tulare County (UWTC) expanded its existing information and referral system by establishing FIRST CALL (1-800-283-9323) in 2001.

Based on its experience with FIRST CALL it was logical for UWTC to explore transitioning into a 2-1-1 system. With the support of UWTC’s Board of Directors, First 5 Tulare County and Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency, it was decided that UWTC would begin the process of establishing 2-1-1 Tulare County.

In January 2009, UWTC established a 2-1-1 Advisory Committee composed of local non-profits, the private business sector, county government agencies, and local city governments. Planning milestones were developed and used as the framework to begin the process of establishing a 2-1-1 system in Tulare County.

In March 2009, the Tulare County Board of Supervisors affirmed UWTC as the lead organization for 2-1-1 in Tulare County. UWTC has worked on establishing all standards set by the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS). Calls are taken twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred sixty-five days a year by Interface Children Family Services and use iCarol database.

Privacy and Data Collection

I. General

We respect the privacy of every individual who visits our website and adhere to state and federal privacy laws. This privacy policy outlines the information 2-1-1 Tulare County collects through our website and how we use that information. By using this site, you are indicating that you agree to this policy.

II. Use of Personal Information

Some sections of this website may collect and retain personally identifiable information about you, such as your name, address, telephone number of email address, etc. If you do provide us with personal information, we may retain and use that information for several purposes, including customizing your experience on the website or linking you with requested information. This also applies to any collection of your email address. Your email address and/or contact information will not be provided to any third parties, without prior consent.

III. Technical Information Collected Automatically

We also collect certain technical information with regard to your use of our website. However, this information does not allow us to identify you personally. This information may include the type of Internet browser, computer operating system you are using, or the name of the website from which you linked to our site.

IV. Comments and Questions

If you wish to add, correct or delete information you have provided to our organization, or if you have any comments, questions or concerns about this privacy policy, please contact us.