Janine is from Clifton. Up until recently, she had a full time job and shared an apartment and general living expenses with a friend. A few month’s ago, her friend left the apartment, leaving Janine with the burden of full payment. Soon after, she was behind in her rent. As a result, her landlord took her to court.
She also had reason to believe that she was being billed for an upstairs apartment's services. The utility company agreed to investigate, but the landlord was not willing to let them access the meters.
Janine called 2-1-1 and spoke with a Community Resource Specialist who accessed their database to find those community agencies that addressed Janine's needs best. Janine’s ‘one-stop-shopping’ phone call saved her time, and further aggravation.
The end result? Janine received food assistance and help with her rent, and used court mediation to help resolve the issues with her landlord. Proof positive that 2-1-1 works.
Chances are that either you or a family member or friend will, at some point in time, need assistance or additional information about community services in our area. Perhaps you recently lost your job, or maybe a dear friend is having trouble with his utility payments. That’s why we have a free referral service that will help you get critical details and information on a host of health and human services that are available in Passaic County.
Simply dial 2-1-1 from any land based telephone in Passaic County (just like you’d dial 4-1-1 to get a phone number). Trained information and referral specialists will direct you to the appropriate community services that fit your needs best. Information is available on a wide range of issues, including physical and mental health services, job training, programs for elderly, childcare, and more.
The call is free, and there is no charge for the information and referrals that you will receive. You may also access information on community services now, at www.firstcall.org.
In Passaic County, 2-1-1 is sponsored by United Way of Passaic County and is operated by First Call For Help.
Don’t Be In The Dark
Click on the light bulb to download a free “how to guide” on obtaining help with your utility bills.
Don’t Be Left Out in the Cold
Click on the snowflake to download free information on rental assistance.
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