DESI DIARY

DIAL 211 FOR COMMUNITY SUPPORT

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From NEWS CANADA

Across the country there are all sorts of organizations, services and resources created to support people when times are tough.

These include counselling programs, English as a second language and employment support and transportation for seniors to get to appointments, among many others. Think of how your local library offers learning-to-read programs or your community centre provides a food bank for those in need.

But 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.

We all know to dial 911 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.

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. 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 completed in Ontario, over 95 per cent 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 211. It is free, confidential and accessible 7 days a week in over 150 languages.