For Immediate Release
November 7, 2007
Contact:
Elaine Genasci, Marketing & Development Coordinator
(805) 544-6016
elaine@slohotline.org
The 411 on 211: Kick-off Event in Downtown San
Luis Obispo
211 SLO Hotline brings this vital service network to the SLO community
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA – 211, the information and
referral service proven so effective in assisting the Southern California
fire victims, is coming to San Luis Obispo County. Celebrating
a major milestone in the dedicated effort to join the statewide collaboration
of 211 Service Providers, 211 SLO Hotline is excited to host a kick-off
event Wednesday,
November 14 at 10am at the City/County
Library (995 Palm St.) marking the launch of the service in
the area. “We are thrilled to be a part of the 211 system and to
provide enhanced access to health and human services for our community,” says
Hotline Executive Director Linda McGregor. 211 call centers are designed
with searchable, web-based technology that can be easily updated and
linked throughout California so even in a disaster situation, calls can
be forwarded out of harm’s way and callers in the disaster zone
can still access the information they need.
Those who saw the vital need for 211 service in the area and supported Hotline's efforts to bring the service to San Luis Obispo County will gather to make the first test calls as 211 SLO Hotline begins the launch of the service. “We could not have brought 211 to the county without the support and dedication of these individuals and corporations,” says McGregor. “We are so grateful for their assistance and are proud of what we have accomplished together.” Contributors include County Supervisor Jerry Lenthall, who served as co-chair of the 211 Steering Committee, PG&E, Rabobank, United Way and the Sheriff’s Advisory Council.
Hotline has served the county for nearly 40 years and will continue to provide the same service to the community when the telephone number is changed and the call center is added to the 211 network. Hotline remains the only free service of its kind in the area providing information and referral, support and crisis intervention. 211 SLO Hotline serves as a 24-hour information hub providing easy access to more than 500 health and human service programs, support groups, and round-the-clock confidential connections to caring, compassionate listeners.
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