We're all familiar with our emergency number 911. And most people have heard of 411 or directory assistance -- although with all the apps on our phones I don't even know if it's still used by anyone but little old ladies. But here's one you may not have heard of: 211.

211 is a way to coral all the social services available in Schuylkill County in one place -- government services as well as those  offered privately. There is a seemingly endless list: medical services, food banks, mental health services, educational aid, employment services, veterans help, public transportation. Just visit their website and check out all the categories. This information line is active 24/7 and is free. This is not a place to contact in an emergency, only to learn about services that can help you! You can access it by

• Phone: Call 211 or 855-501-6785
• Text: Text your zip code to 898211
• Internet: www.pa211east.org/schuylkill
• Email: adminasst@schuylkillunitedway.org

If you have something that should be added you're welcome to submit your organization's information at www.schuylkillunitedway.org (click on PA 211). 

​We all go through tough times. Finding help shouldn't be tough!

Only two more moths of summer left so if "take a hike" is on your to-do list here are a few more chances. Bring plenty of water!

Wednesday, June 27
Wildflower Walk
Meet at upper beach parking lot in Tuscarora Park at 10:30 a.m. for a 4.5 mile hike rated moderate.

Saturday, July 7
Meet at the Schuylkill County Ag Center at 2 p.m. for this 2 mile hike rated easy. Porcupine Pat will lead hikers on a new stretch of the Bartram Trail enjoying scenic views from Tumbling Run to Seven Stars

I'm sure all our county's book lovers already have the Republican Herald Used Book Sale on their calendars (July 26 -28) but, if you have any gently read books you'd like to get off your shelves, today is the last day to take them to the Republican Herald office (111 Mahantongo Street, Pottsville), your local Boyer's Markets in Frackville and Orwigsburg or the Republican Herald warehouse (201 Bull's Head Road, Pottsville). Get more information about attending the sale or donating books here.

Stop by Wednesday for a list of the many things happening around July 4th -- music, fireworks, parades and more!

Tomorrow is National Trails Day! Why not throw on your hiking boots and head for a trail with the whole family whether it's the Appalachian Trail or just the walking path around your local playground. It's also a day to help improve trails around the country. If this Saturday doesn't work for you there is a whole month of hikes planned so make your own national trails day.

Saturday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Meet at the AT parking lot at Routes 443 & 72 to carpool. This 8 mile hike is rated moderate and will explore Cold Springs at Hawk Watch, Fort Indiantown Gap. Bring a lunch but no dogs, please. You MUST register for this hike. Call Robin at 570-467-2506.

Sunday, June 10 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Meet at Sunbury Road and Hillside Road for this 7 mile hike rated easy. Led by "Hiker Jim" this hike will offer strip mine regrowth, the black desert, Mine Hill Gap and the Heckscherville Valley.

Saturday, June 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Meet at parking lot on Gold Mine Road in the State Game Lands for a 3 mile hike rated moderate. Led by Mike Centeleghe this hike will also offer a lesson about the trees of Penn's Woods.