With bitterly cold conditions early this week, the Greater Twin Cities United Way is reminding people that its 211 resource helpline can provide immediate assistance and information to people and families who need help. By dialing 211, texting their ZIP code to 898-211 or going to 211unitedway.org, people in need can be connected to a wide range of services including: Emergency shelter and housing: Help unhoused people find safe and warm places to stay. Heating and utility: Provide information on programs that offer financial aid to help with heating cost and prevent utility shutoffs. Food and nutrition programs: Provide information on food banks, meal programs and nutritional support services. Health and medical services: Provide guidance on getting medical care, mental health support and help with prescriptions. Winter clothing and supplies: Connect people with organizations that can provide warm clothes, blankets and other essential winter items. The 211 help line is available 24/7 in multiple languages. Related Articles Health | The California wildfires could be leaving deeper inequality in their wake Health | What to know about the devastation from the Los Angeles-area fires Health | It’s a snowplow-naming smackdown in Washington County. Here are the finalists. Health | NFL monitoring wild fires in Los Angeles, where Vikings are scheduled to start the playoffs Monday Health | Weather forecast: A chilly week, but temps expected to warm with a chance of snow