211 Q & A
Who Can Use 2-1-1?
If you're looking for assistance with a problem and you don't know where to turn, or you simply want information on a particular human service issue, 2-1-1 is for you.
Communities in the Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Sturgis, and Northern Hills areas have access to 2-1-1.
When Can I Call?
2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Who Answers the 211 Calls?
In South Dakota all the 211 calls are answered at the HELP!Line Center by trained specialists. The HELP!Line Center is the only organization in the state accredited by both AIRS (Alliance of Information & Referral Systems) and AAS (American Association of Suicidiology).
How Does 2-1-1 Work?
If you're in one of the communities covered by the 2-1-1 service, just pick up your home phone, office phone, or cell phone and dial 2-1-1. If you are outside the communities listed above, you can reach the call center directly by dialing (605) 339-4357.
What if I have problems dialing 211?
If you experience difficulty, simply call 605-339-4357 to access the service and to inquire about technical assistance.
For organizations with in-house phone networks, or PBX telephone systems, calling parameters may need to be adjusted to enable three-digit dialing access to 2-1-1.
Most systems will allow dialing access to 9-1-1, but modifications may be required to permit 2-1-1 calling. Typically, your telecommunications staff or a service provider can make this simple adjustment. In some cases, the issue can be resolved by dialing 9 or another access code needed to get an outside line, before dialing 2-1-1.
And, unlike access to 4-1-1 calling, there is no surcharge to your organization for the use of 2-1-1.
For additional assistance, contact Chad Olson at the HELP!Line Center at 605-339-4357.