The United Way of Mower County announced Monday its 2-1-1 service; a free, confidential and multi-lingual information line and website that connects people with services and resources in their community.

Residents of Mower County can dial 2-1-1 at any time for assistance with a variety of needs, including food, shelter, child care, job resources, health care or family services.

“We are thrilled to offer 2-1-1 to the Mower County community,” said Mandi Lighthizer-Schmidt, executive director of the United Way of Mower County. “This resource will be invaluable to our residents and providers alike.”

She added that Mower County is rich in resources, but sometimes its challenging to find them, especially during a crisis.

“2-1-1 is the one call to make when you don’t know who to call,” she said.

Callers can use a landline or cell phone on the AT&T, Verizon and Sprint networks, and will be connected with a person trained to assist them. The call centers are located in Minnesota and interpreter services are available in over 70 languages.

“It was very important that language would not be a barrier to individuals in need of referrals,” Lighthizer-Schmidt said.

There is also an interactive website to zero in on the type of service needed.

The United Way has gathered extensive information on service providers and organizations in the area, but several may have been overlooked. To add a provider or to address general questions, contact the United Way office at 507-437-2313.