Web-based app created to provide eviction resources amid COVID-19

PHOENIX – Overwhelmed with calls and unable to answer them all, the Crisis Response Network has released a new web-based app to help Arizonans find detailed eviction prevention guidance and information amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Over 50% of our calls are related to housing, shelter and utility assistance,” TJ Reed, director of social determinants of health and community impact with Crisis Response Network, said.

Available at 211arizona.org, the free chatbot app is one way the Crisis Response Network is adapting to meet community needs. The app asks users a series of questions then provides a detailed, zip code specific report of resources and information.

Reed explained the entire process takes about two minutes, with no need to wait on hold for someone to answer.

“This is so simple and easy that if you have access to the internet, I would recommend checking this out first and looking at the resources that are available,” Reed said.

Reed assures Arizonans they can still call 2-1-1 at any time if the information provided is not enough.

“We are here for you and if you need it, and the application is unable to meet your needs, feel free to give us a call,” Reed said.

The application, powered by Amazon Web Services, is available in Spanish and was developed in approximately 30 days with the help of Arizona State University’s Smart City Cloud Innovation Center.