211 is in trouble.

The statewide telephone number for social service referrals is in financial jeopardy.

Now some very generous state agencies are answering the call.

The group that operates the 211 service, FirstLink, recently announced that it can no longer afford to do so after March 15.

At today's Public Service Commission Meeting First Link brings forth a nearly 250-thousand dollar budget.

Five state agencies have combined resources to offer more than 200-thousand dollars to help keep the program alive at least until the next legislative session.

(Carol Olson / ND Department of Human Services) "A good number of the calls that do come in on 211 are coming in from our vulnerable population from the citizens that really are seeking out help. It's a policy decision. And in order for the legislature the appropriate decision yeah or nay, on this it does have to get that far. I feel we should take an opportunity to keep it alive long enough to get infront of the legislatve body for them to make that decision."


Cindy Miller with First Link says payroll is the biggest piece of the budget.

Miller says they hope to hire 3 additional staff. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list