With nearly 20,000 non-profit organizations throughout North Carolina, knowing who to call when you need help can be tough.

But the United Way of North Carolina says it doesn't have to be if you use its 2-1-1 hotline.

2-1-1 is an information and referral hotline that can help you with anything from food assistance to finding a healthcare provider if you've been laid off from work.

The call center in Durham averages about 3,500 calls a month, but now that number is up 25 percent.

"There's been a big increase as of lately, anyway. A lot of people are calling for employment. The main ones we still get though are help with utility bills and rent," said 2-1-1 operator DeSean Hill.

The United Way says 2-1-1 can connect you to the one or two organizations that can help you best so you don't have to go searching through the phone book or make dozens of cold calls.

"We don't want you to have to go through that stress. We want you to pick up the phone and call us, and we're gonna give you everything that you need in one stop," said Jill Cox with the United Way of NC.

And with unemployment in the double digits, Cox hopes people know the service is around now more than ever.

After Robin Anderson and her children relocated to North Carolina, she called 2-1-1.

The mom of four learned about the service through a domestic violence center.

"When I came here I didn't have anything. 2-1-1 helped me get food for my children, clothing, even help with finding a place and help with trying to pay rent," said Anderson.

"Our only goal is to make sure that you can get the help you need in the time that you need it," said Cox.

The call center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The call is free and confidential.

Currently 2-1-1 covers 67 percent of the state and the United Way says is plans to expand the service this summer.

If you'd like to help, the United Way of NC asks you to tell your local elected officials to support the "Calling For 2-1-1 Act" to help provide the service statewide.

You can also donate to the Triangle United Way or any of its member agencies.