WILKES-BARRE – Rent assistance is still one of the main reasons residents of the valley dial 2-1-1. This is the latest from the Family Service Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania, which sent the

2-1-1 monthly reports. 2-1-1 is a statewide one-call clearinghouse for social and human service opportunities, funding assistance, and other aids.

In its April report, the organization says more than 130 contacts have been made from Valley counties, mostly for rent and other housing assistance. Last month’s report also said 18 Northumberland County residents dialed 2-1-1 for assistance with electric utility payments.

In the northeastern Pennsylvania region, more than 2,600 contacts have been made; of those contacts, more than 800 were for questions about COVID-19 vaccination clinics and more than 500 for rent assistance.

Union – 18 contacts established in April; 6 for rent, 3 for housing assistance.

Snyder – 28 contacts established; 7 rents, 3 housing / domestic violence shelters assistance

Northumberland – 83 contacts established; 27 rents, 18 electric, 23 housing

Montour – 9 contacts established; 2 clearing centers for emergency shelters, online tax preparation

Total Valley Region – 2,663 contacts established; 812 COVID vaccination clinic inquiries, 520 rent