211: An essential service

Feb 10, 2022

211 has become an essential service providing support to individuals, as well as service providers, who have seen an increase in the complexity of their clients’ needs throughout the pandemic. Since October 2020, the 211 service has responded to over 15,000 calls, providing individuals with crucial referrals and information to assist them during an especially challenging time.

February 11th marks National 211 Day. In order to raise awareness regarding the 211 information and navigation service, 28 NB communities, including the City of Edmundston, will light up buildings in red as part of the United Glow campaign.

Based on data collected regarding calls to the service, over 20% are related to housing insecurity (residential housing options, housing expense and utilities assistance, emergency shelter), while other top reasons include health (11.5%), mental health and addictions (11.2%), information about government programs (11%), and public health & safety advisory clarifications (9.8%).

The pandemic has taught us that collaboration across sectors, communities, party lines and levels of government is key to protecting and strengthening communities in challenging times. To ensure an equitable recovery as we rebuild our communities, we must continue to remove silos and increase our collaborative approach to community wellness.

The wide range of community services and government programs compiled by 211, positions it well to be the one-stop shop the government needs to ensure no vulnerable community members slips through the cracks. This service is free, confidential, available 365 days a year in over 150 languages.

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Do not hesitate to contact 211 service, by dialing 2-1-1, emailing 211nb@findhelp.ca or through the 211 New Brunswick website.