BOZEMAN — February 11th marks a special day all across the country. It’s 211 day.
“So 211 day is more of an awareness day just to let people know that this is a free confidential number that you can call or access online,” said Mandy St. Augryn, who works at the Help Center.
You’ve probably heard of calling 911. But dialing 211 can be just as life-saving for a lot of people.
“Anything that anyone is needing help with, so whether they’re having a hard time paying their bills that month or they know that they would like to access mental health help, or if they are needing help with utilities or if they feel like they’re in crisis or feeling suicidal or just need someone to talk to that’s what the Help Center is here for and what 211 is here for," said St. Aubyn
211 day is all about bringing more awareness to a community resource that many have already utilized.
“We have seen an increase, so in 2020 we saw about a 179 percent increase on the 211 line,” St. Aubyn said.
Which has proven to be beneficial for the people in the community.
“I think quick, easy, and free access to immediate help 24/7 is so important so that when people need us they know that we’re here anytime,” said St. Aubyn.
A majority of counties across the state have 211 assistance. And there’s an option to access 211 from anywhere.
“In Montana, 36 out of the 56 counties have a call center that they can call 211 and access immediately, but every Montana has access to Montana211.org," said St. Aubyn.
