Ask 2-1-1 Sacramento: March 2010

2-1-1 Sacramento is available to take your calls 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Whether you have need of our services at 3pm in the afternoon or 3am in the morning; during the week or anytime on the weekend, you can reach us by simply dialing 2-1-1; (916) 498-1000 or (800) 500-4931. A trained Specialist is always available to take your call.

Volunteers Needed! Are you looking for an activity that lets you assist others in need? You might like to consider being a volunteer at 2-1-1 Sacramento. We have a need for your talents year round and especially during tax season. If you’re interested, call 2-1-1 Sacramento.

Q: I moved into a senior apartment complex about 2 years ago, and I have been having trouble getting things fixed.  It took quite a while for my landlord to weatherproof my windows and door and even to get my entryway light working again.  Now, I have a leaky sink in the bathroom and it has been over a month since I have written my landlord to inform him of the issue.  In order to get the repairs done is there anyone that I can talk to?

A: I’m sorry to hear that you are having difficulties getting things fixed at your apartment complex.  It sounds as though you have taken the necessary steps to inform your landlord of the issues.  There is a booklet put out by the Human Rights Fair Housing Commission titled 2008 Fair Housing Handbook that lists some things that you may be able to do in order to get your sink fixed.  To request a copy of the 2008 Fair Housing Handbook or to find numbers for legal assistance, give us a call at 2-1-1 or dial (916) 498-1000.

Q: I am 61 years old and have been working since I was 16.  In December, I was laid off from my job. I have a lot of experience to offer an employer, but with the state of this economy I’m having a very difficult time finding another job.  Do you know where someone my age can turn to in order to get some assistance in finding a new job?

A: These are certainly difficult times we are faced with. We have a list of Senior Employment Resources that lists agencies and programs that help assist job seekers in finding a job.  Some of the programs include trainings for new job skills, computer training, community assistance, support, job-readiness trainings and job search assistance.  If you would like us to send you a copy of Senior Employment Resources, give us a call at 2-1-1 or dial (916) 498-1000.

Q. Last month we became grandparents for the first time! My daughter is on a very limited income, and we want to insure all the right steps are taken with her first child. A car seat is our big concern right now. Do you have any information that will be helpful to us?

A. Yes we do. Proper car seat and safety is one of the best things you can do for your new grandchild. California law states that children MUST be properly restrained in an appropriate child passenger restraint system in the rear seat until they reach 6 years of age or at least 60 pounds. We have information about the proper installation of car seats and even child car seat safety classes. Additionally, your daughter may qualify for a free car seat for your grandchild. For more information on these programs and pamphlets, give us a call at 2-1-1 or (916) 498-1000.