A message from Board Member Mahboob Akhter

When I joined 2-1-1 Orange County in 2007, the organization fielded 64,701 calls that year; we will end 2010 having answered more than 100,000 calls from community members. We knew the needs were steadily growing across all areas, but the demand surged with the economic recession, especially in areas such as shelter, food, rent assistance, and utilities. It has been humbling and painful to see such need across our community’s residents, yet a learning experience for all associated with 2-1-1 Orange County.

In order to meet the challenges, we reformed our business model, restructured our operations, and worked to bring efficiency into day-to-day operations. Compelled by the need to do more with less, our board has been actively involved in the organization wherever they have been needed. We are preparing now for the anticipated growth in call volume in the coming months and continue to add resources to meet the needs – be it human power, technology or funding.

It has been a rewarding experience to know by serving 2-1-1 Orange County I am helping families in need across the county. Spiritually, we know giving is empowering, and even the medical community emphasizes giving is important for happiness and contentment. I invite you to exercise your power of generosity toward the residents of Orange County and make a donation to 2-1-1 Orange County. Make this holiday season special for yourself and for those in need.

“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.”
- Abraham Lincoln

Mahboob Akhter serves as the Director of Business Development at Quartics, Inc., and is 2-1-1 Orange County's Vice President of Government Relations

2-1-1s across CA take proactive lead to educate the public on the state's refreshed food assistance program

Recently the California Department of Social Services recently unveiled CalFresh, the new name for the California food assistance program and previously referred to as food stamps. CalFresh exudes the togetherness of California, and that all Californians, and especially 211s, are working together to bring healthy eating and living to those who need it most.

“We believe the new logo and slogan better captures our Californian vision -- one that promotes good nutrition for better living and better overall health, ” Kim Belshé, Secretary of the Health and Human Services Agency.

Currently, 2.3 million Californians receive CalFresh benefits. Unfortunately, there are over 5.2 million Californians total that are income eligible, leaving almost 3 million people unserved in our state. Many people are currently experiencing food insecurity and hunger instead of participating in CalFresh. Furthermore, an additional $6.9 billion of economic activity a year would be generated in California if there were full participation in the program.

As 2-1-1 educates our callers about CalFresh and introduce the purpose behind the new name, we have the opportunity to continue reducing the stigma of nutritional assistance to encourage eligible Californians to take part in this critical program.

John Wagner, Director of the California Department of Social Services, “We are giving the Food Stamp program a new name which better captures California’s way of life and the fresh food we all enjoy in this state."

For more information visit 2-1-1 OC Useful Links.