Alphabetical Index | Subject Index
MISCELLANEOUS TIPS:
What is 2-1-1 Texas?
2-1-1 Texas, formally First Call for Help, is a service for the entire community. 2-1-1 is the new abbreviated dialing code for free, bilingual information and referrals to health and human services and community organizations. 2-1-1 serves as the number to call for information about community organizations, and its links individuals and families to critical health and human services provided by nonprofit organizations and government agencies in their own communities.
How does 2-1-1 Texas work?
Our local 2-1-1 service is part of a statewide network implemented in fall 2003. Currently, the free 2-1-1 dialing code is operated by the Stat as the local 2-1-1 call center for the South Central Texas region, which includes the following counties: Bastrop, Blanco, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, Travis, and Williamson.
Who is eligible to call?
Any individual looking for information or assistance to identify the services best suited to meet his or her needs is eligible to call. Case managers, church leaders, employers, teachers, or other agencies calling on behalf of their clients, members, employees or students are also welcome.
When is 2-1-1 available?
Our local 2-1-1 dialing code accessible 24-hours a day.
Is 2-1-1 Texas a crisis hotline?
2-1-1 Texas is a telephone information and referral line. We don’t provide financial assistance; however, we can direct you to agencies in the community that may be able to provide assistance.
What types of calls does 2-1-1 Texas receive?
We receive calls regarding health services; food; clothing; housing; government; resources; education; employment; counseling; support groups; recreation; community groups; services for children, youth families and older adults; and many more topics.
Can I dial 2-1-1 on my cell phone?
No, not at this time. When using a cell phone, please call 512-973-9203 and press option 2 to reach 2-1-1 Texas.
How do I apply for Food Stamps, Medicaid, or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) using 2-1-1?
After choosing English/Spanish option, press #2 option. This is the Health and Human Services Benefits Hotline. Use this line when applying for Food Stamps, Medicaid, or TANF. Other information that can be assessed is Lone Star Card information, current information on benefits, status of application or the report changes on existing case. Medicaid and TANF application may be filled out over the phone. Food Stamp application may be filled out only in combination with Medicaid and TANF. If applying for Food Stamps, referral will be made to local office. After the application is completed over the phone, the application will be mailed to clients for signatures and other verification needed. Process for Medicaid and TANF may take up to 45 days. Process for food stamps may take up to 30 days.
How do I apply for CHIP?
Press #2 option the Health and Human Services Helpline. Select the CHIP option. Application may be completed over the phone or be mailed to the client. If application is completed over the phone, it will be mailed to the client for signatures and any additional verification needed. Process takes 30 to 45 days.