PITTSBURGH — PA 2-1-1 Southwest, the free human services helpline that serves Butler County, now is fully operational and staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It also covers Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Mercer, Washington, and Westmoreland counties.

The new around-the-clock status was to be announced at noon today at a luncheon.

Those dialing 2-1-1 can tap into resources for help with utilities, housing, employment, food, finding care for a loved one, questions about the Affordable Care Act, connecting with volunteer opportunities or setting an appointment for free tax preparation.

Since its inception in 2011, PA 2-1-1 Southwest has assisted more than 114,000 callers. In 2013, 56,714 calls were answered.

It anticipates fielding more than 70,000 calls this year.

Peoples, a Pittsburgh natural gas company, was to announce a financial commitment to support PA 2-1-1 for three years.

The service also can be used by visiting its website, pa211southwest.org.