Letter: Help in difficult times is just 3 digits away
For most of us, the holidays are a time of joy, when gratitude, gifts and time spent with loved ones is plentiful. But this time of year also often illustrates the marked discrepancy between families living in poverty and their more affluent neighbors. In fact, this season, consumers are expected to spend nearly $1,000 on gifts, food and other holiday expenses over the next two months. For our neighbors who are struggling to pay their heating bills, cover child care costs or put food on the table, however, the holidays are often a time of additional stress.
But this season – and year-round – 2-1-1 is there to help. Supported by United Ways of New Jersey (including United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey), 2-1-1 is a fast, free and confidential helpline that connects community members with local resources to help navigate everyday situations and crisis needs. Anyone can connect with a 2-1-1 community resource specialist by phone, online at nj211.org or by texting their ZIP code to 898-211.
Need help this holiday season? Get connected. Get answers. Call or text 2-1-1 today.
John Emge
United Ways of New Jersey president
Melissa Acree
NJ 2-1-1 executive director