The central point of access for community information and referral for Milwaukee County residents in need of assistance with family, health and social services. Provides telephone intervention and assessment 24 hours, 7 days a week for a wide range of issues including emergency food; alcohol or other drug abuse; access to health care; homelessness and emergency shelter; family and parenting issues; legal assistance; and health insurance coverage/Affordable Care Act. A comprehensive searchable resource database can be accessed via the IMPACT website. Help is also available by text and live chat.
Coordinated Entry to Shelter: The Coordinated Entry system utilizes a vulnerability screening to prioritize highest need and ensure immediate access to safe sleeping alternatives for people experiencing homelessness and housing crises. Special considerations such as chronic homelessness, a mental health or physical disability, or a serious illness are factored into referral determinations as some shelters include on-site medical services and allow for daytime residency.
Single men are now being served by the Coordinated Entry for Homeless Services system, in addition to single women and families. In order to access emergency shelter at Hope House of Milwaukee, Guest House of Milwaukee, Salvation Army Emergency Lodge, Cathedral Center or Milwaukee Women’s Center, individuals must contact IMPACT 2-1-1.
IMPACT 2-1-1 prioritizes shelter placements based on available beds and most critical need; and utilizes prevention and diversion strategies when appropriate. This includes providing referrals to non-shelter related homeless services and other basic needs resources to stabilize the client. More information here.
Food Pantry Referrals: 2-1-1 partners closely with the Hunger Task Force (Milwaukee County’s free food bank) and the emergency food pantries they supply. When someone calls 2-1-1 and requests a referral to a food pantry a Resource Specialist will screen those calling for food for their eligibility to go to a food pantry and based on that information provide a referral. Learn more here.
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