On March 17, CBS Evening News reporter Seth Doane visited residents of Elkhart, Indiana who are receiving emergency assistance during their unemployment through United Way 2-1-1.  To watch the news story, click here.

In Connecticut in 2009, 2-1-1 handled more than 360,000 calls offering close to half a million requests for service, an increase of 8 percent and 6 percent respectively over the previous year. The website received more than 525,000 visits, an increase of 46 percent over the same time period. More and more, callers seek help with basic needs such as paying for utilities, finding housing, financial assistance, food resources and public assistance programs. In 2009, referrals for basic needs services rose, in some cases dramatically, and accounted for 41 percent of all referrals. The largest increases in referrals were for housing, financial assistance, and public assistance programs. Referrals for utility assistance topped the list but saw a lesser increase. 

If you are looking for resources for where to turn if you become unemployed, please click here.