Mt. Vernon, IL – United Way of South Central Illinois is proud to announce it has received a Union Pacific Railroad Community Ties Giving Program grant through the Building America initiative. The funding will directly support 2-1-1, a free and confidential helpline connecting residents to essential community resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“2-1-1 is truly a lifeline for families in crisis,” said Natalie Shook, Executive Director of United Way of South Central Illinois. “Whether someone is facing hunger, homelessness, job loss, or needs mental health support, one call to 2-1-1 connects them to real help. Thanks to Union Pacific’s support, we can continue ensuring that no one in our community has to struggle alone.”
The 2-1-1 service allows callers, website users, or texters to quickly connect with trained specialists who provide referrals for food pantries, shelters, rent and utility assistance, child care, transportation, job training, and more. In addition to individual support, 2-1-1 data helps identify emerging needs and gaps in services across Jefferson, Marion, and Washington Counties, giving community leaders the tools to respond proactively.
Union Pacific’s Community Ties Giving Program provides small- and medium-sized grants that align with the railroad’s priority cause areas in safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability.
“Union Pacific is proud to support organizations doing the hard work on the ground to improve the quality of life for their communities, including those where our employees live and work across our 23-state network,” said Lisa Lawson Stark, vice president – Public Affairs, Union Pacific Railroad. “Investments in high-quality nonprofits yield growth, prosperity, and well-being of the communities we serve.”
With the support of Union Pacific, United Way of South Central Illinois will strengthen outreach and improve access to critical services through 2-1-1, ensuring that more residents in Southern Illinois have a place to turn in their moments of need.