Citizens across Tennessee and our nation deserve convenient access to the government and community services they need.  Unfortunately, people do not always know where to find help despite a widespread increase in support services. 

I am cosponsoring the Calling for 2-1-1 Act because it will facilitate nationwide access to the 2-1-1 telephone services already available in twenty-one states, including Tennessee.  By providing grant money to create or expand these services, we can better supply information on child care, job training, volunteer opportunities, elderly care, housing, and a host of other community needs.  In times of emergency and homeland security needs, the 2-1-1 system will also relieve pressure placed on 9-1-1 call centers. 

We are blessed to live in a country where quality community and referral services are common.  We simply have to connect people to the help they need.