Need Food?
CALL 211 or text your zip code to 898-211 for help finding local pantries in Rockford and Winnebago County. Click the link below for bus routes that will take you to a local food pantry.
Warming Centers
If you or someone you know needs a warm, safe place to go, 2-1-1 can help connect you to local warming centers and overnight shelters in Rockford and Winnebago County.
211 Provides Community Support & Crisis Services in Winnebago County
Free. Confidential. Available 24/7.
The United Way 211 Resource and Referral Line connects people in Winnebago County and the Rockford area with essential support when they need it most.
By dialing 2-1-1, individuals and families can reach trained specialists who listen, assess their needs, and connect them with local resources for food, housing, healthcare, utilities, childcare, employment, and more.
This is a simple, trusted way to find resources.
Dial 2-1-1
Talk with trained staff and volunteers who will listen to your situation. They will quickly refer you to the most appropriate source of assistance. The network supports 240 languages such as Spanish, Swahili, Mandarin Chinese, and more. United Way 211 is also available by calling (888) 865-9903 and online.
Text your zip code to 898-211
Texting services are available 24/7.
Experiencing Connection Issues?
Most landline and wireless carriers within Winnebago County provide access to this resource line. You may also dial (866) 813-1731 or find information at il211.org.
United Way 211 offers information on a wide range of services, including:
- Rent Assistance: Resources to help you catch up on overdue rent or prevent eviction during tough times.
- Food Banks: Guidance to local food pantries and programs providing groceries or hot meals.
- Affordable Housing: Information on low-cost housing options and transitional shelter programs for individuals and families.
- Health Resources: Assistance with finding medical care, mental health services, or substance use support.
- Childcare: Access to affordable child care providers and programs that fit your family's needs.
- After-School Programs: Options for safe, enriching activities that support your child's development outside of school hours.
- Elderly Care: Support services for seniors, including in-home care, meal delivery, and transportation assistance.
- Financial Literacy: Tools and workshops to help you better manage your finances and build long-term stability.
- Job Training Programs: Opportunities for skill-building, career counseling, and connections to local employment programs.
Interactive Impact Dashboard
EXPLORE 211 BY THE NUMBERS
Explore the 211 Impact Dashboard
This dashboard shows real-time 211 data for your community. Users can sort and filter by county, date range, and other criteria to see localized trends and activity. This tool is designed for quick access by community leaders, partners, and anyone looking to better understand how residents are connecting with help.
What You’ll Find
Explore key data points including total contacts, demographics, top needs, referral categories, and overall service gaps and outcomes. Charts and visuals update instantly based on your selections, making it easy to identify patterns, measure impact, and inform planning, funding, and policy decisions.
I feel really blessed from the help I’ve gotten. I can’t say enough about how nice they are down at 211. They’re so kind. They don’t make you feel shameful.
— 211 Caller
211 is sponsored locally by MembersAlliance Credit Union. We are grateful for their support of this vital community resource.
211 is here when it matters most
This vital service is made possible through the generosity of United Way Rock River Valley. Every call answered and every connection made is fueled by community giving. Your support helps ensure that individuals and families can find help, dignity, and hope—exactly when they need it.