On December 1, 2017 call center operations for 2-1-1 Suncoast will be provided through Heart of Florida United Way 2-1-1 (HFUW 2-1-1). The transition will ensure community members in need continue to receive the highest quality access to assistance. HFUW 2-1-1 will offer information and referral services 24/7/365 with the added ability to connect with the community through real time chat, text and email, in addition to 2-1-1 phone services. The decision to transition to HFUW 2-1-1 was made by members of the 2-1-1 funders collaborative. The transition follows the national trend to centralize 2-1-1 centers to larger facilities to create economies of scale to decrease expenses, while increasing capacity and responsiveness for residents. The funders collaborative includes the: Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation, Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Manatee County Government, Sarasota County Government, United Way South Sarasota and United Way Suncoast. Maintaining a local presence is important and there will be a local community liaison to help assure that services meet community needs. Residents will not experience any disruption in service during the transition.

2-1-1 Suncoast