TOLEDO, Ohio — Every year, United Way of Greater Toledo takes account of the resources available for residents in the Toledo-area and the best ways to get those resources into the hands of people who need them.
During United Way's 211 week, which is the week of Feb. 11, a series of events are held to keep the community informed and connected.
This year the first event is a breakfast held on Feb. 8 beginning at 8:30 a.m. The breakfast will also be an information session at the Nitschke Technology Complex on the University of Toledo's Main Campus. The non-profit will create opportunities to hear from city leaders including retired Fire Chief Brian Byrd and city of Toledo Council Member Nick Komives.
Community members who have taken advantage of the 211 help line will also be in attendance at the events this week to share their stories and advise.
Wendy Pestrue, CEO of United Way of Greater Toledo, explained more than 80,000 calls are made annually to 211.
She said most of those calls have involved housing and food stability in which advice is given to secure meals or prevent evictions. Beyond that the CEO said there are many other ways 211 can assist and the resource is available 24-7 for all Lucas, Ottawa, and Wood County residents.
"It's not just maybe food or housing or the kind of stability that people need in a crisis moment. But it can even be help with what kind of educational opportunities are available resume writing services. Maybe you are interested in buying a house and you want to know how to get started. United Way who takes care of the 211 here is all about health financial stability housing and making sure lives are healthy so we use 211 for all those resources, said Pestrue.
Registration is open and required for the rest of the week's events.
On Feb. 11, the non-profit will host a special celebration. A resource training will then be held on Feb. 13.
MORE ON WTOL: