Need help? Call 211

Sometimes folks often end up homeless because they can’t pay rent, have their lights shut off because they can’t pay their electric or lose phone service because they couldn’t pay.

And for some families, that downward spiral ends in homelessness. But there are local options people struggling to make ends meet may not know can help.

No problem, says Food Pantry of Wasilla Executive Director Eddie Ezelle. Just call 211.

At the other end of the phone are operators who are local experts in which of the network of local nonprofits offer which services. Whether you need to locate the food panty nearest you or need help paying an electric bill or insurance premium, the 211 United Way operators know who to call, Ezelle said.

Preventing homelessness is cheaper than reacting to homeless by helping people get re-established after they are homeless, he said.

“Anyone with questions about needs — from housing to food — these guys will help you through it,” he said.

People also may access the same information online in a searchable database at alaska211.org/.