COLUMBUS — In a move designed to simplify how families navigate the maze of social services, Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) announced today that the 211 help line is going statewide.
The expansion ensures that for the first time in state history, residents in all 88 Ohio counties will have 24/7 access to local community resources. While 211 has long been a staple in urban centers, this partnership brings coverage to 30 rural and underserved counties where services were previously limited or entirely unavailable.
A 24/7 Lifeline for “Everyday Challenges”
Ohio 211 is a free, anonymous service that connects callers to a vast network of support, including:
- Essential Needs: Food assistance, housing, and emergency shelter.
- Health & Safety: Medical services, counseling, and disaster recovery.
- Logistics: Transportation, legal assistance, and government programs.
The expansion, which is set to be fully implemented by the end of June 2026, merges 13 regional providers into a single, high-quality statewide system.
Bridging the Gap for Families
Beyond general assistance, the new partnership specifically bolsters the Department of Children and Youth. Callers will now be able to access DCY’s Family and Customer Support Center after normal business hours, providing a critical link for parents and guardians in crisis.
“Connecting Ohioans to the help they need should be simple and accessible,” said Governor DeWine. “This partnership strengthens our ability to serve families and makes it easier for people to access the local resources that can help them move forward.”
Kara Wente, Director of DCY, emphasized that the system will also connect callers to local Parent and Youth Ambassadors, ensuring that the support provided is tailored to the specific needs of each community.
By the Numbers: The Growing Need
The decision to go statewide follows a record-breaking year for the service. In 2025, Ohio’s existing 211 centers handled nearly 800,000 contacts and identified over 809,000 specific needs.
“Navigating through various federal, state, and local services can at times be overwhelming,” said Terry Carter, President of Ohio 211. “This investment is critical to achieving the goal of every Ohioan being able to access 211 services at any time.”
As the rollout continues through the summer, officials are encouraging residents to visit www.ohio211.org to learn more about the resources available in their specific zip code.
