211 MOUNTAIN VALLEY

WHAT IS 211 MOUNTAIN VALLEY?

United Way’s 211 Mountain Valley is a confidential and trusted resource connecting individuals and families in Merced and Mariposa Counties to the support they need. In times of uncertainty and fear, 211 provides a safe space for anyone seeking guidance—whether navigating complex challenges like housing, healthcare, or immigration concerns. Our Referral Specialists are deeply connected to the diverse community of the Central Valley and we ensure that every interaction is handled with care, respect, and cultural understanding. At 211, we believe everyone has the right to access the resources available to them, regardless of their circumstances.

24/7 AND DATA DRIVEN

Operating 24/7 through phone and text, 211 Mountain Valley connects residents to essential community resources, available in over 150 languages through sophisticated phone interpretation services. As a data-driven entity, we continuously gather and analyze real-time data from our interactions, allowing us to quickly identify and act on emerging trends and needs within the community—often before they become widely recognized.

  • 211 is a FREE service that connects community members to information about critical health and human services available in their community. 211 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 211 utilizes both bilingual Call Specialists and a phone-based translation service to offer 211 information and referral in over 150 languages. 211 also provides incident-specific information during times of disaster, including road closures and shelters.

  • BY PHONE: Dial 211 from a landline or cell phone in Mariposa County or by dialing our toll-free number (844-287-7400).

    BY TEXT: Text your zip code to 898-211. ONLINE:

    ONLINE: Search the 211 resource database online at www.211merced.org

  • When you dial 211, let the Call Specialist know the area you need services for, and we will gladly give you the toll-free number to the 211 service for that area.

    You can also find the toll-free number for 211 services across the country at 211.org.

  • The 211 dialing code has been designated by the Federal Communication Commission for community information and referral services, just as 9-1-1 is set aside for emergency services.

    When you dial 211 from a landline or cell phone, your phone provider directs your call to the local 211 provider.

  • Currently United Way of Merced County operates its 211 program Monday-Friday 8:00 - 5:00.

    On weekends, evenings, and holidays, we contract the call service to CAPK in Kern County who operates the services utilizing our database.

  • Currently a majority of our 211 staff are bilingual in English and Spanish. We also contract out with Language Line to receive 24/7 interpretation services in over 150 languages.