Rarely, if ever, does a budget cut result in an increase in services. However, when that budget cut is achieved by consolidating some of New York state’s 350 toll-free telephone numbers, the state has the unique opportunity to increase New Yorkers’ access to valuable, sometimes life-saving, information.
By consolidating toll-free numbers, New York state could save $9 million in telecommunications costs annually. We propose using $4.4 million of these savings to fund 2-1-1 help lines.
2-1-1 help lines connect individuals and families with the health and human services programs that can help them. Last year, 2-1-1 Helpline — a program of the Institute for Human Services, serving five counties in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes — received almost 29,000 calls from individuals seeking assistance with basic needs, employment, finances, legal issues, and more.
On the state level, more than 90 percent of the population is served by 2-1-1. Help lines made 2.78 million referrals in 2009, a large increase over 2008. By effectively linking people in need to the services that can best help them improve their lives, these 2-1-1 services assist in making the best use of limited resources.
United Ways across the state are strong supporters of 2-1-1 centers, providing financial support, advocacy and cross-promotion whenever possible.
Locally, United Way of the Southern Tier is steadfast in its commitment to 2-1-1 Helpline, a part of the 2-1-1 Finger Lakes Region.
We join other United Ways and 2-1-1 help lines across the state in support of the proposal to consolidate toll-free numbers and increase funding for 2-1-1. Aside from cost savings, this plan would offer other benefits:
• $4.6 million would be available for state deficit reduction.
• 2-1-1 services would become available statewide, 24/7, year-round, and include language translation, essential in meeting the needs of this state’s diverse population.
• 116 jobs would be maintained and 37 new ones created — adding to the state’s revenue.
We urge the Legislature and Governor to move forward with this sensible and cost-effective plan.
Ron Hatch,
President
United Way of the Southern Tier
Patrick Rogers,
Executive Director
The Institute for Human Services
