By Catherine M. Welch
Wilmington, NC – Robeson County is gearing up to launch the first 211 information number east of I-95.
Robeson County commissioners signed off on the phone line this week. The number will deliver information on such topics as where to get flu shots, severe weather and social services.
United Way of Robeson County Director Sandra Oliver says there is a strong need for the 211 line.
Hopefully it will be a very comprehensive package, and that people can dial from their homes and find out where services are available, so that they can make that contact instead of going from one agency or service to another and just getting tossed from place to place. The 211 information line will cost Robeson County $10,000 dollars a year.
The county says much of the first year's bill has been paid through grants and donations.
The Robeson County 211 line will start answering calls by the end of the year.