WHEREAS, the Federal Communication Commission has designated 2-1-1 as the national phone number for citizens wanting non-emergency information and referral for social and welfare services, health and mental health services, housing and shelter needs 24 hours a day and 7 days a week; and

WHEREAS, 2-1-1 serves as a critical link between the public and emergency food, shelter, and other critical needs following major disasters, such as acts of terrorism or war, earthquakes, floods, or fire; and

WHEREAS, 2-1-1 provides a new vehicle for civic engagement, connecting people with agencies to which they can donate their time, money or goods; and

WHEREAS, 55 centers in 19 U. S. states are already using 2-1-1 successfully and meeting over 50 million citizens' information and referral needs; and

WHEREAS, 2-1-1 is projected to reach 50% of the population by year end 2005; and

WHEREAS, the California Association of Information and Referral Systems (CAIRS) has petitioned the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to authorize 2-1-1 statewide and to define rules governing a system that is decentralized by county; and

WHEREAS, under the leadership of United Way Silicon Valley, the citizens of Santa Clara County have organized a year-long effort to plan and implement this program in Santa Clara County by Spring 2005; and

WHEREAS, the advice, cooperation and support of Santa Clara County and all fifteen cities within the county will be required for all residents of Santa Clara County to benefit from the 2-1-1 system;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SUNNYVALE THAT:

Adopted by the City Council at a regular meeting held on ________________, 2003, by the following vote:

SEAL