Idaho 211 (also called the Idaho CareLine) is a free information and referral service available to anyone in Idaho. Trained navigators answer calls around the clock and help connect you to local and statewide programs for housing, food, healthcare, mental health and substance use treatment, employment, legal aid, utilities, transportation, and more.

Early recovery often means rebuilding several parts of life at once — income, housing, healthcare, and community. Instead of searching for a different phone number or website for every single need, Phoenix House members can call 211 once and get pointed in the right direction for all of it, including programs already covered on your Member Resource Page like Medicaid, SNAP food assistance, job search tools, and legal aid.

If you’re not sure which resource page to look at, or you have a need that isn’t listed anywhere, calling 211 first is always a safe move.

• Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Idaho
• Or call 1-800-926-2588 if 2-1-1 doesn’t connect from your phone
• Text your ZIP code to 898-211
• Chat live or search the resource database at 211.idaho.gov
• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — English, Spanish, and interpretation for other languages

Housing & Rent Assistance — Emergency shelter, rental assistance programs, eviction prevention resources, and transitional or sober housing options.

Food Assistance — Help applying for SNAP, plus food pantries, free meal sites, and other emergency food programs near you.

Healthcare & Medicaid Navigation — Help understanding and applying for Medicaid, finding low-cost clinics, and connecting with MAT and behavioral health providers.

Substance Use & Mental Health Referrals — Referrals to treatment programs, counseling, support groups, and crisis resources across Idaho.

Utility & Bill Payment Assistance — Programs that help with electric, gas, and water bills, including emergency and seasonal assistance funds.

Employment & Job Training — Connections to Idaho Department of Labor services, job training programs, and resume/interview help.

Legal Aid & ID Document Help — Referrals to Idaho Legal Aid Services, help replacing a lost ID, and guidance on record expungement resources.

Transportation, Veteran Services & Disaster Response — Low-cost or free transportation options, veteran-specific benefits, and emergency help during disasters.

Option 1: Call 2-1-1 (Fastest for Most Situations)

• Dial 2-1-1 from any phone
• Briefly describe what you need (for example, “I need help applying for food assistance”)
• Share your city or ZIP code so the navigator can find local resources
• Write down the agency names, phone numbers, and any next steps
• Ask if a warm transfer or direct referral is possible if you need extra help

Option 2: Text Your ZIP Code to 898-211 — good if you’d rather not talk on the phone. You’ll receive information back by text.

Option 3: Search Online at 211.idaho.gov — a searchable resource database and live chat. Try broad terms first, like “food assistance” or “rent help,” then narrow down by city (Nampa, Caldwell, etc.).

• A short description of your situation or need
• Your city, county, or ZIP code, so the navigator can find local resources
• Household size and a rough sense of income, if asking about benefits like SNAP or Medicaid
• Any deadlines you’re facing (for example, an eviction date or a benefits renewal date)

• Call anytime, not just in an emergency. 211 is meant for everyday needs.
• It’s free and confidential. You won’t be charged, and you don’t have to give personal details you’re not comfortable sharing.
• Keep a note of what you’re told. Write down agency names and numbers so you (or Phoenix House staff) can follow up later.
• Use it alongside your Member Resource Page. If you’re unsure which resource page applies to your situation, 211 can point you in the right direction.
• It’s okay to ask for help asking. If you’re overwhelmed, Phoenix House staff can sit with you while you call.
• Try again if needed. If a referral doesn’t pan out, call back — there’s often more than one option for any given need.