In late March, Gov. Doug Ducey announced that the state’s 211 crisis hotline would be reserved exclusively for coronavirus help. It has since offered service to thousands of people.
Since its launch, the hotline has received over 25,000 calls and has offered help to more than 6,000 individuals.
Most of the calls are for general information about the virus and how it spreads. But Crisis Response Network CEO Justin Chase says that’s not all.
“Our second-highest need that we are identifying is financial assistance. Individuals are looking for resources related to rent, payments, homelessness needs, utility assistance and eviction prevention resources," Chase said.
The 211 number is a crisis hotline that operates year-round. Chase says the hotline saw a 10% increase in calls during March. Even as people maintain social isolation, Chase says it’s important to remain engaged and connected to others.
