MONTEREY COUNTY — Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) is helping expand access to 211 services across Monterey County — an essential lifeline that connects residents to food, shelter, health care, financial assistance and other critical resources.
As part of its 2025 charitable contributions, PG&E’s Central Coast team awarded a $30,000 grant to United Way Monterey County to help support, prepare and keep customers connected.
“United Way Monterey County’s 211 service is a critical part of our human service infrastructure,” said Katy Castagna, president and CEO of United Way Monterey County. “Trained call specialists offer resource information and help problem solve with compassion and confidentiality, 24/7. Our centralized database of social services is continually updated and our brand is known and trusted by the most vulnerable people in our community. Like PG&E, we offer powerful connections for all.”
In 2024 alone, 211 Monterey County handled more than 13,300 calls and texts that resulted in over 19,700 referrals.
“We want to ensure that our community has equitable access to both reliable energy and critical resources like 211,” said Jeremy Howard, PG&E’s regional senior manager for the Central Coast. “This partnership helps keep our customers informed and connected, especially during challenging times.”
In addition, 211 plays a vital role during storms, outages and disasters by connecting customers to lodging, ADA-accessible transportation, food banks and utility assistance programs.
PG&E also partners with the 211 California Network to support residents who rely on electricity for medical equipment. The program helps them create safety plans and access support during outages.
Monterey County residents can dial 2-1-1 to learn more and check eligibility for this free program.
