Well, you can call it by the end of the year.

211 is a service coordinated by United Way for Southeastern Michigan, providing access to health and human service information. In December, residents of Wayne, Macomb and Oakland counties can dial “211” for free to be connected to a specialist who will ask a series of questions, search a database of programs and then direct the caller to the appropriate resource.

There are plans in the works for a statewide program, but until then, 211 will only be available to land line phones.

The 211 service will provide streamlined access to resources for senior citizens in search of affordable prescription drugs, single mothers looking for child care centers, children with learning or developmental disabilities, victims of domestic violence, tax information, volunteer opportunities, locations of food banks and homeless shelters. And much more.

There are six call centers in Louisiana, where 211 served as an emergency number after the hurricane disabled 911 service. So get ready and spread the word about this valuable resource.