The organization that operates Arizona's 211 system is working with Gov. Katie Hobbs, APS and other stakeholders to cobble together funding to keep this lifeline going.
211 connects callers to resources for housing, utility assistance, food and more. And during the hot summer months, it's a lifeline. But this service isn’t free. It requires $3.5 million per year to operate.
Justin Chase is the CEO of Solari Crisis and Human Services, which operates 211. He says the Hobbs administration was able to extend funding through November.
“And now APS has come forward, committing a million dollars," he said.
That leaves about $1.5 million in additional funding that needs to be cobbled together.
“Both groups are working with us to try and raise some philanthropic funds, see if other stakeholders possibly in the utility space maybe want to come forward and help support and create this bridge funding," Chase said.
A spokesperson for the governor's office said it will continue to work to identify funding solutions.
Hobbs' spokesperson issued the following statement on 211:
"To prevent an interruption of such a vital service, our office was able to broker support from APS and other utility partners to fund 211 through the beginning of 2026. We will continue to work to identify short and long term funding solutions to continue such an important service for Arizonans. The governor’s office has committed to convene stakeholders (state agencies, local governments, utilities, etc.) to develop a long-term solution to fund 211's live operator service. I will let you know as soon as I have an update."
