Dear Abby: I read the letter from “On My Own in Bloomington, Ind.” (Aug. 5), who needed a ride to her colonoscopy appointment but didn’t have transportation. Your suggestions were admirable, but there is another service you should be aware of.

Many states have a 2-1-1 Information and Referral Service, often sponsored by the local United Way. It has trained information and referral specialists available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to listen to individuals’ needs or questions, help callers make informed decisions, and link them to a variety of community resources that fit their needs.

Those needs could be anything from a volunteer driver for a medical appointment to help caring for an aging relative, consumer help, child-care services, finding a local food shelf, domestic abuse shelter or chemical dependency treatment. When you don’t know whom to call, call 2-1-1. It is available to help you find answers confidentially.

Lynetta In Duluth, Minn.

Dear Lynetta: My readers never cease to amaze me. You always come through with all kinds of suggestions for any situation, as you did again. Thanks to all of you. I’m sure the information will be appreciated. My readers’ comments: