With a winter weather event expected later this week, United Way of Northeast Louisiana (UWNELA) and their 211 team are working proactively to help our community prepare and stay safe.

They are sharing ready-to-use, forwardable resources you can pass along to your staff, clients, congregations, and networks. These tools are designed specifically for Louisiana winter conditions, where the biggest risks are power outages, icy roads, and staying warm safely.

What to Share

They've created two simple checklists that can be shared digitally or printed:

1. Before the Freeze: Winter Weather Prep Checklist for Louisiana

2. Family Response Bag: Louisiana Ice / Winter Weather Checklist

* Also available on our website: unitedwaynela.org/211

How to Connect to 211

211 is available before and during winter weather events to connect individuals and families to available resources.

People can connect to 211 in several ways:

• Dial 211 from your phone – free, confidential, and available 24/7
• Visit the online resource database: unitedwaynela.org/211database
• Text your ZIP Code to 898-211 (available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.)

Submit a 211 Assistance Request: unitedwaynela.org/211

(Requests are routed to a 211 Case Manager for follow-up.)

Important Note on Transportation Assistance

Prior to the onset of winter weather, 211 can help connect individuals to transportation assistance when services are available. As conditions worsen (ice, road closures, or service suspensions), transportation options may become limited or unavailable. We encourage early planning and early outreach whenever possible.

People-First Reminders

Please help reinforce these key messages:

• Check on seniors, individuals living alone, and families with babies — twice daily if possible.
• Identify anyone who is power-dependent (oxygen, dialysis, refrigerated medications) and help them plan early.
• Avoid travel when possible — bridges and overpasses ice first.
• Stay warm safely — never use grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors.

Simple Message You Can Copy & Share

Louisiana ice is rare, but outages and slick roads are real. Charge devices, protect pipes, avoid travel, and stay warm safely. Never run generators or grills indoors. Need heat, shelter, food, or supplies? Call 211.

Thank you for helping United Way share this information quickly and widely. Your partnership plays a critical role in keeping Northeast Louisiana informed, prepared, and safe. United is the Way we support our community.