SALISBURY — Gov. Roy Cooper has announced that 211 is the number to call for assistance and resources related to the COVID-19 coronavirus.

The number is an information and referral service, operated by United Way of North Carolina, where families and individuals can obtain free and confidential information on health and human service resources within their community 24 hours a day. Resources are available in most languages. The local united way provides funding to make 211 possible.

“NC 2-1-1 is an important resource every day for families in our community who may experience a crisis such as food insecurity or unemployment. During times like this with the COVID 19 crisis, the needs of all North Carolinians will increase and I am proud 2-1-1 will be here to help,” said Executive Director Jenny Lee.

Cooper said services like 211 are critical and that North Carolinians need to have access to needed resources amid the spread of COVID-19.

Individuals who have specific needs related to food, shelter, energy assistance, housing, parenting resources, health care, substance abuse treatment as well as specific resources for older adults and for persons with disabilities should dial 211 or 888-892-1162 for assistance, a news release said.  Due to expected high call volume, those wanting to stay updated on general developments with North Carolina’s response to the coronavirus crisis should sign up for 211’s text alerts by texting COVIDNC to 898211.

North Carolina’s 211 service cannot provide direct medical services, and COVID-19 can only be diagnosed by a health care professional.