Some concerns have been expressed about Nevada County’s new senior assistance service, which was recently added to the 2-1-1 system, eliminating the previous, independent helpline. That includes more information about the contract change and transition guidelines. 2-11 program manager Tim Giuliani concedes there could be a lot more outreach since the change took effect on July 1st…

click to listen to Tim Giuliani

Giuliani does point out that seniors who call the old helpline are told to, instead, dial 2-1-1. It’s a nationwide 24-hour program, connecting residents to a wide variety of community programs and services, including disability, financial assistance, food programs, housing, transportation, and legal assistance…

click to listen to Tim Giuliani

Giuliani says Nevada County is the first rural county in California added to the 2-1-1 system and is also the smallest county in the state to be added. Supporters say it’s a more cost-efficient way of hooking up residents to services.