Montana TM Get Connected. Get Answers. Find the resources included in the Answer Book United Way 752-7266 WHAT IS INFORMATION & REFERRAL? THE VALUE OF THE MONTANA DATA BASE Information and referral (I&R) gives people in need an easy link to information about local resources. I&R is the link between all community resources and all residents. From the single mother needing food for her children to the senior citizen looking for in-home care, I&R brings people and services together. The human connection between the caller and a trained information and referral specialist allows the caller to focus, prioritize, and access the most appropriate service provider to respond to his or her needs. Provides an easy, visible, and non-judgemental entry point for people who are in need. Increases efficiency by helping callers clearly define their needs and then pointing them to the best places to seek help. Relieves some of the burden on service providers by reducing the number of calls from people who are not eligible for their services or who are seeking services that agencies do not provide. e Provides a ready resource for service providers to use in referring their current clients to additional services. e Creates new knowledge about needs and gaps in services that can help policy-makers and resource allocators make better decisions and more effectively plan for the future. Provides a critical disaster and emergency information system for immediate response during times of crisis. Picture on the front cover is United Way High School Leaders of Tomorrow at the Business and Industry Tour at Weyerhaeuser. If you need help call. 211 or 752-8181 or 800-332-8425 The United Way & the Daily Inter Lake present The Answer Book as a community service to the people of Northwest Montana. Inclusion in The Answer Book does not reflect endorsement by the United Way or the Daily Inter Lake.