Senator Young Announces Funding For United Way of Cattaraugus County

The lines of communication between multiple communities have been opened to provide greater service, thanks to a $20,000 grant obtained by State Senator Catharine "Cathy" Young (R,I,C - Olean) for the United Way of Cattaragus County, Inc.

The funding will be used for the continued operations of Project 2-1-1, a pilot program developing a rural telecommunications sub-hub in conjunction with the United Ways of Cattaraugus and Chautauqua Counties.

"Project 2-1-1 is a tremendous program that provides valuable services," Senator Young said. "This system has the double-sided benefit of helping those in need as well as guiding those who wish to help."

"The United Way of Cattaraugus County, Inc. is sincerely grateful to Senator Young for supporting this valuable service in our area," said Candy Plants, Chief Operating officer of United Way of Cattaraugus County. "We look forward to the day that all regional call centers will join in partnership as a National 211 system."

The idea behind 2-1-1 is that it is an easy to remember telephone number that would connect people with important community services and volunteer opportunities. The implementation of 2-1-1 is being spearheaded by United Ways and comprehensive and specialized information and referral agencies in local communities. The 2-1-1 will link residents with health and human services in their respective communities.