We all know to dial 9-1-1 in an emergency. But now there’s another three-digit number you can dial for help finding any kind of non-emergency support you might need. 211 is a free, confidential service that connects people to social and community supports available seven days a week.
Finding the right program for your situation can be a challenge at the best of times. An Internet search can be overwhelming and time consuming, and COVID-19 has forced organizations and governments to change the way they deliver supports, which makes things even more complicated. It’s even more stressful when you’re feeling desperate or someone is depending on you.
Whether you’re looking for seniors’ programs, groups for new parents, after-school programs, counselling or mental health support, employment programs, food banks, housing help, legal information, or countless other topics — the real person you speak to on the line can direct you to the best resources for your unique situation.
The team that answers the phones are highly trained to guide callers through a conversation to fully assess all of their needs, not just the issue they are calling about, and refer them to information, programs and supports that will make a difference. They’ll listen and ask questions to fully understand your situation, but you don’t have to give your name or any personal details.
According to caller surveys more than 95% of callers would call again or recommend 211 to a friend or family member.
As part of its COVID-19 response, the Government of Canada provided funding to United Way Centraide Canada to expand the service nationwide.
Some provinces with existing service saw a dramatic rise in calls in the first wave of the pandemic, and many callers had never needed to access supports before. The shutdowns had presented them with new challenges, such as isolation, anxiety, and financial strain.
As information, programs and services changed rapidly, 211 navigators helped callers find the right support.
If you need non-emergency help, just dial 2-1-1.
