When to Call Broward 211 vs. 311
Use 211 for crisis and community services; use 311 for Broward County government departments, programs, and requests.
Start here
Dial 211 or 954-537-0211 for 24/7 crisis, health, food, housing, caregiver, and community referrals. Dial 311 or 954-831-4000 for Broward County government information and services.
What to have ready
- The Broward ZIP code where help is needed
- A one-sentence description of the need
- Any deadline, shutoff, eviction, discharge, or safety concern
- Preferred language and accessibility needs
Words you can use
“I am in Broward ZIP code [ZIP] and need [specific help]. Which program owns this, is it accepting calls now, and is this a referral or the actual application?”
Steps in order
- 1
Use 211 for human services, crisis support, and community programs.
- 2
Use 311 for county departments and government service requests.
- 3
Ask for the direct program name, phone, starting step, and current availability.
- 4
Call 911 for immediate danger, serious injury, fire, or a medical emergency.
If the first answer is no or wait
If a referral fails, call back with the reason and ask for another route. Keep the program name and date checked.
Official sources
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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