AARP and United Way Launch 211 Program to Help Florida Caregivers

AARP Florida has joined forces with 211 and United Way Worldwide to connect residents with trained, compassionate people in their communities who can provide caregiving help any day, any time. People who provide care for someone—like a family member or friend—need care, too, but navigating available services or programs that can help can be a challenge. Through 211, a free health and human services information and referral helpline, caregivers can talk to real people in their community to find local resources for loved ones and themselves, too.

The goal of this program is to identify family caregivers via 211 and match them with critical resources to:

• Address basic necessities such as housing, food and employment that take the focus off caregiving.

• Connect to local services and organizations, with guidance from specialists/experts in the community, for help getting loved ones to medical appointments and access to food delivery services, home safety, veterans’ benefits, etc.

• Simplify access to specialized help while anticipating changes in care situations in tandem.
  
• Help the family caregiver navigate their own personal concerns and challenges that come with caregiving.
  

“As champions for Florida’s 2.7 million caregivers, we know at AARP that caregiving can be a complex and challenging role, and many may not know where to turn to for help or may be overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources available,” said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director. “211 simplifies the process by helping caregivers navigate the health care system, access financial assistance and emotional support in their communities, and more.”

"Across America, 211 is seeing continued demand for local services to help family caregivers and their loved ones,” said Joshua Pedersen, Senior Director of 211 at United Way Worldwide. “Often, someone might call, text or chat 211 to find out what support is available for their loved one, and the call specialist is trained to hear when they need more support for themselves, too. By joining forces with AARP, this will help fill a critical resource gap. “

211 trained call specialists respond to 50,000 requests for help every day all over the U.S. and tap into 1.5 million locally curated resources. Floridians can get the local information they need by simply dialing 211 today for free help. Dial 211 or visit https://www.211.org.

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About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.

About United Way

United Way is one of the world's largest privately funded charities, serving 95% of U.S. communities and 37 countries. Every year, we make life better for 48 million people, working with 45,000 private, public, and 29,000 community partners to boost education, economic solutions, and health resources. Learn more at UnitedWay.org. Follow us: @UnitedWay and #LiveUnited.

About 211

Every day, millions of people across America face challenges, but don’t know where to turn for help. 211 provides expert, caring help in real time (and 180 languages) across 99% of the U.S. It’s a phone number, text-messaging service and website that connects people with local resources. Learn more at 211.org