KJZZ: The organization that operates Arizona’s 211 system is calling on Gov. Katie Hobbs and lawmakers to keep funding this service.
Justin Chase is the CEO of Solari Crisis and Human Services, a nonprofit that operates 211.
“It’s a contact center and resource system to really be able to connect individuals and families to critical needs such as housing insecurity, food boxes, shelter assistance.” Chase said.
And last year, they helped more than half a million Arizonans.
But, he said. “We’re running short on funding for the fall.”
The state has been funding 211 since 2020.
“And we’re in dire need of creating sustainable funds to be able to keep the 211 live answer component continuing,” Chase said.
The system is staffed with 75 employees who answer calls and connect individuals and families to more than 8,500 community-based resources throughout the state.
“There is no back-up plan. If 211 goes away, we don’t have a resource in this state to be able to pick up the pieces and provide that support,” Chase said.
Chase says 211 requires $3.5 million per year to operate.
“We deeply value Solari’s 211 live operator line for connecting Arizonans, especially our most vulnerable, to critical services,” said Hobbs’ spokesperson Liliana Soto. “Since 2023, Governor Hobbs has supported 211 through a significant investment of more than $25 million, including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds which are set to expire next fiscal year. We recognize Solari’s vital role in our community, and our office is actively working to explore solutions to sustainably fund this service.”