IL SJR0030

Recognizes 211 Illinois as a free, 24-hour helpline providing referrals for basic needs including food, shelter, counseling, employment, and healthcare services for individuals and families experiencing poverty.

Notes that between FY2021 and FY2022, the 211 Illinois hotline received 98,046 calls and texts and connected over 50,000 individuals and families with housing, shelter, and utility assistance services.

Identifies that 64% of Illinois residents lacked access to 211 Illinois services as of 2022, demonstrating a significant coverage gap.

Urges state agencies to utilize data from the 211 Illinois online dashboard to identify service gaps and develop resources to address them, with priority given to counties experiencing gaps in child welfare prevention services.

Calls for state funding to support the expansion and maintenance of 211 Illinois statewide and the community-based organizations that provide supportive services.