Starting this week, DuPage County extends its 211 Helpline service to texting. The free confidential information and referral service will provide its central access point to health and human services in the area through texting between 8 am and 6 pm Monday – Friday.

Residents just text their ZIP code to 898211 or TXT211 to get referrals to assistance available near them. Spanish-speakers can text the word Spanish in response to 211's initial reply to get assistance in Spanish.

Texting the 211 Helpline will allow privacy for DuPage County residents where a voice call may be overheard. Individuals seeking help also can continue to call and navigate the website at https://211dupage.gov  to find available services near them 24/7. Anyone will be able to obtain immediate referrals anytime day or night to mental health services, addiction support and rehabilitation, crisis counseling, supplemental food programs, shelter and affordable housing options, employment and education support, financial support, and more through the new texting feature.