Giving Grace: Crisis 211 helps those in need in the Clarksville community

In just about everyone’s life there comes a time when you need help and someone to turn to. When that need arises, local organization Crisis 211 is available.

Executive Director Terry Williams describes Crisis 211 as a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, information and referral agency which is a 411 for community information.

“We take calls from people who need food pantries, need assistance with shelter, and we also take calls from people who are suicidal,” Williams said.

When it comes to the organization’s 211 side, Williams said many people may not know that you can call 211 from anywhere in the nation and you will get the nearest 211 location to give you information about the community.

“We’re called a blended crisis center because that means we can deal with people who are suicidal, people who are in bad relationships, and even those who are just having a bad day or are lonely,” Williams said.

Williams said many people don’t realize Crisis 211 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When you call, the phone will be answered by a real person and not a recorded menu telling you which button to push.

The staff and volunteers of Crisis 211 who answer the phones are trained to provide many different types of assistance that range from help with serious personal problems to finding out where to pay a utility bill. Williams said sometimes it’s just that people want someone to talk to.

Crisis 211 is a partner agency of the United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region that has been serving the community for 31 years. The organization is always looking for support in the way of monetary donations, sponsors for fundraising events, and volunteers.

At this time the agency is hosting Crisis at Christmas and has requested help for children who don’t qualify for other charity programs during the holidays. Last year they were able to help 149 children with toys at Christmas.

The crisis intervention number is 931-648-1000 24-hours a day, seven days a week in Clarksville-Montgomery County. That is also the number to text if you would rather do that than call. For community information you can call 211 or 931-552-INFO (4636).