May 21, 2013
DOTHAN, AL--Answering the phone is a daily task for Laurie Ward.
"It changes from day to day."
For the past two months Laurie has worked as a call specialist at the Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 center.
"Sometimes we will be very busy it'll ring and all the lines will be lit up, explained Ward."
The numbers speak for themselves.
So far this year wiregrass residents have made 10,754 calls to the center.
That's about the same as last year around this time.
When it comes to counties, Houston county tops the list at 6,861 calls. Dale county ranks second at 1210 and Covington county has the least at 251.
"Our largest call that we get is for financial assistance and for housing," added Executive Director David Duke.
So far this year 325 homeless individuals and families have contacted 2-1-1 for assistance.
"More and more people know now that 2-1-1 is available and they can pick up that phone," said Duke.
And many are pleased. A survey conducted by 2-1-1 operators show 99 percent of residents are pleased with the service the center provides and would recommend the center to others.
The center currently partners with 800 agencies and programs that provide assistance to residents.
If you'd like to volunteer with any of the agencies you can call Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 for more information.
