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Hawaii Island United Way outlines plan to expand 211 helpline access; committee votes to close communication file
Summary
Hawaii Island United Way told the County of Hawaii oversight committee that the statewide 211 helpline serves housing, food and utility needs, presented local usage and unmet-need data, and outlined a volunteer-driven effort to build a Hawaii Island resource directory by March 2026. The committee voted 8-0 to close the communication file.
Michelle Kalimba, chair of the County of Hawaii Communication Reports and Council Oversight Committee, opened the Dec. 16 meeting and invited Hawaii Island United Way to present on the statewide 211 helpline.
Francesca Thompson, speaking for Hawaii Island United Way, described 211 as "a free confidential helpline and online resource that connects individuals and families to essential health and human services," including housing, food assistance, mental-health support, child care and transportation. Thompson said Aloha United Way operates the statewide 211 service and that Hawaii Island United Way is working with Aloha, Maui and Kauai United Ways to make sure neighbor‑island resources are accurate and discoverable.
Thompson provided usage data through October 2025. She said the 2024 statewide call volume was about 40,000; top statewide requests included rent…
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