At a time when access to vital resources can make a significant difference in people’s lives, collaborations between community organizations are essential. The partnership between Unite Us, CyncHealth and the Nebraska 211 Helpline, stands as a testament to the power of collective action in addressing the diverse needs of Nebraskans.

Unite Us: A Network for Community Support

Unite Us, the nation’s trusted technology partner for social care transformation, powers the coordinated care network Unite Nebraska comprised of health and social service providers and government agencies. Partners in the network are connected through Unite Us’ shared technology platform, which enables them to send and receive secure electronic referrals, address people’s social needs, and improve health across communities. The goal is to eliminate barriers and ensure that all Nebraskans can access the support they need, fostering a healthier and more resilient community.

Community-based organizations can join Unite Nebraska at no cost, including many organizations considered part of the safety net.

CyncHealth: A Health-Centric Approach

As the Unite Nebraska network sponsor, CyncHealth plays a pivotal role in this partnership by focusing on health-related services and improving overall health outcomes. As a health data utility, CyncHealth enables the secure sharing of health information among providers, which is crucial for coordinating care and addressing the health needs of individuals. Their commitment to enhancing health access and understanding the role health-related social needs play in health outcomes guides the work of Unite Us and the Nebraska 211 Helpline in Nebraska and Iowa.

Access to Unite Us is offered to CyncHealth participants as part of their suite of applications.

The Coordination Center: Nebraska 211 Helpline’s Role

The Nebraska 211 Helpline, powered by United Way of the Midlands, is a comprehensive resource designed to connect individuals with essential services across the state. By dialing 211, residents can access information on various services, including housing assistance, food programs, mental health resources and more. The Helpline acts as a crucial link, ensuring that those in need can find help in a timely manner.

Central to the collaboration is the Nebraska 211 Helpline, which acts as the Coordination Center for Unite Nebraska. This role involves processing and facilitating network referrals, ensuring that clients are connected to the most appropriate programs for their needs. When a person reaches out for assistance, a 211 navigator assesses their situation and directs them to the best possible resources—whether that’s healthcare options, mental health services, housing support, food assistance or something else.

By streamlining the referral process, the Nebraska 211 Helpline enhances the effectiveness of Unite Nebraska’s network. It reduces the time and effort individuals need to spend navigating multiple services, allowing them to focus on what matters most: improving their circumstances.

Enhancing Access and Efficiency

The collaboration between these organizations significantly enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of community resource access. With the Nebraska 211 Helpline serving as the first point of contact, clients benefit from personalized support that leads them directly to the right resources. This coordinated approach not only saves time but also fosters a sense of trust and assurance for those seeking help.

A Holistic Approach to Community Well-Being

The partnership embodies a holistic approach to community well-being. By integrating services and focusing on the unique needs of individuals, Unite Us, CyncHealth and the Nebraska 211 Helpline create a safety net that supports mental, physical, and emotional health. This comprehensive model is essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals and families across Nebraska.

By working together, these organizations are not just connecting individuals to resources; they are creating a supportive ecosystem that empowers Nebraskans to thrive. As they continue to evolve and adapt to the needs of each community, their collective impact will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future for all residents of Nebraska.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, dial 211, text your ZIP Code to 898211 or visit uwm211.org.