Most nonprofit agencies depend on financial donations. 211 can refer callers to nonprofit agencies whose missions coincide with the donor’s interests. Want to fight hunger? Give to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties . Want to end domestic violence? Give to STAND! Against Domestic Violence. Want to help young children with disabilities? Give to We Care Services for Children.

Donating money to the Contra Costa Crisis Center, which operates 211 in Contra Costa County , supports the cost of the service. Donors, if they choose, also can support the Crisis Center’s 24-hour crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and grief counseling services.

Oftentimes people buy new furniture, appliances, clothing, and other items and want to donate their old items if they’re in good condition. The easiest way to do this is by calling 211.

Used furniture can be donated to a local homeless shelter. Working refrigerators and freezers can be donated to emergency food pantries. Quality used clothing can be donated to agencies that provide wardrobes to low-income people who are applying for jobs.

Whether someone wants to give help or get help, 211 is the easy-to-remember number to call in Contra Costa County . Help starts here.