"Our young family was reeling from a random act of senseless violence. We were lucky to find 211's Violence Prevention Helpline." These are the words from a caller, whose husband was inadvertently shot while securing their baby in the car. Through the 211 Violence Prevention Helpline, they connected to rent and utility assistance, diapers, and grief support services, aiding their recovery and offering solace and hope during this challenging time.
In a city where stories of violence dominate headlines, efforts to address and prevent these tragedies are often overlooked. Although gun-related deaths declined for the second straight year in 2023, the need for action persists.
June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month – a time for all of us to come together, recognize the tenacious work being done to create safe neighborhoods and recommit ourselves to creating a region where everyone can thrive, feel secure, and live without fear.
Navigating the multitude of violence prevention programs and services available in Philadelphia can be overwhelming and time-consuming for people experiencing hardship. Hundreds of organizations and entities are ready to help but too often, Philadelphians seeking safety and support don't know where to turn.
Navigating the multitude of violence prevention programs and services available in Philadelphia can be overwhelming and time-consuming for people experiencing hardship.
This is where the 211 Violence Prevention Helpline steps in. Just one phone call, text, chat, or web click can connect households to over 10,000 resources and services in our region. The assistance is free, confidential, available 24/7, offered in 180 languages, and accessible through multiple channels.
Since March 2022, the City of Philadelphia has partnered with United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey to create and host a specialized Violence Prevention Helpline using the 211 infrastructure. By dialing 2-1-1, callers are connected to a multitude of violence prevention resources like conflict resolution, youth programs, trauma support, workforce programs, and more.
By dialing 2-1-1, callers are connected to a multitude of violence prevention resources like conflict resolution, youth programs, trauma support, workforce programs, and more.
A dedicated local team of trained Resource Navigators provides compassionate, real-time assistance to victims of crime, residents in high-crime neighborhoods, and at-promise youth. With one of the nation’s most comprehensive violence prevention databases, featuring over 360 specific resources, we have made over 1,700 referrals and offer an additional 6,000 support programs and services to assist households thrive. Our team ensures that 211 users receive the most up-to-date and relevant information to meet their needs. Assistance is available via phone (dial 211 and select option 3), text (898-211), and online chat at pa211.org.
We have made over 1,700 referrals and offer an additional 6,000 support programs and services to assist households thrive.
Recently, we launched a Violence Prevention feature on the PA211 mobile app (available for iPhone and Android) offering a new alternative to meet the needs and preferences of all Philadelphians. Access to information through the mobile app can also serve as a tool for first responders and community groups involved in violence prevention efforts.
It takes a village to raise awareness about the Helpline’s tools and assistance. Our outreach efforts include 40 Rapid Response texting campaigns that have reached more than 11,200 residents in ZIP codes most affected by gun violence. We have participated in more than 200 community events in high-violence neighborhoods, conducted 76 presentations and trainings for key stakeholders, and ran various media campaigns.
It is an honor to collaborate with The City of Philadelphia’s Office of Violence Prevention and we are deeply inspired and humbled to support the work of government, local non-profits, and community partners committed to creating safer neighborhoods.
Click here to learn more about the accomplishments of the Violence Prevention Helpline and join us in solidarity during this month of action and beyond!