So we’ve talked before about 5-1-1 for weather info and how you’re not supposed to call 9-1-1 unless it’s a true medical emergency.

By now, your head is surely swimming with numbers, but I wanted to make sure you know about one more numeric resource that you should have at your fingertips — 2-1-1.’

2-1-1 is THE way to find out about local resources. You can call to find out if our emergency warming centers are open. Or if your clinic is still serving patients. And if you’re housebound and need assistance, they can connect you with non-profits that can help. As 2-1-1 says on their website: “2-1-1 has been the number to call for thousands who have been affected by the disaster and don’t know where to turn next.”

As much as the Red Cross would like to solve every problem and provide every resource, we can’t do it on our own. Thank goodness Portland has 2-1-1 to help!