AARP and United Way Worldwide Expand 211 Caregiver Program to West Virginia – Increasing Support for Thousands More Family Caregivers

With this expansion, the program will now be available within 32 states and Puerto Rico, reaching 50% of the total U.S. population, and accessible to an estimated 36 million family caregivers.

Charleston – Thousands more family caregivers across West Virginia now have easier access to critical support through the expansion of the Caregiver Support Program offered via 211 – the 24/7 free, confidential 3-digit helpline.

Launched in 2021, this groundbreaking initiative connects family caregivers to essential services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline and has already helped 2.8 million caregivers connect to the resources and support they need. With this expansion, the program is currently available within 32 states and Puerto Rico. Program availability by state can be found here.

“Family caregivers across West Virginia spend so much time making sure their loved ones have what they need. It should be easier for them to find help for themselves, too,” said Brett White, Chair of the West Virginia 211 Board of Directors. “Through this partnership with AARP, caregivers can call 211 and talk with someone who will listen, help them sort through their options, and connect them with resources right here at home.”

With 63 million Americans currently serving as a family caregiver, individuals who take care of their parents, spouses, loved one, — often without pay, training, or support — the need for accessible, trusted help has never been greater. The 211 helpline is confidential, free, available 24/7, offered in 180 languages, and available to anyone seeking support – whether they are a caregiver or not. Through the specialized Caregiver Support Program, caregivers in participating locations can simply dial 211 to connect with trained Community Resource Specialists and receive tailored AARP resources that cover a wide range of topics, along with direct connections to local services, including:

  • Local referrals for transportation, food delivery, home safety, respite care, veterans’ benefits, and more

  • Support to address the caregiver’s own basic needs, like housing, employment, or emotional support

For more information about the Caregiver Support Program, visitwww.aarp.org/211care.To connect with a 211 specialist, simply dial 2-1-1 or visitwww.211.org.