The United Way of Bruce Grey is joining communities across Canada in celebrating 211 Day on February 11th, shining a spotlight on a simple but powerful resource that helps people find support when they need it most.
First launched in Toronto in 2002 and in Grey Bruce in 2009, 211 is a free, confidential information and referral service available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
By dialing or texting 2-1-1, or visiting www.informationbrucegrey.ca, residents can be connected to hundreds of local and regional social, community, and government services — in multiple languages.
United Way Executive Director Francesca Dobbyn says about 10,000 calls have been received by 211 from Bruce Grey residents in the last year, noting “42% of the calls were people looking for housing-related support so we know that’s an issue in our community…but also up there is income support, general information and connection to mental health or substance-use support programs”.
Beyond individual support, anonymized 211 data also helps communities identify emerging trends and service gaps which also helps guide planning and investment across the region.
For more information or support, residents can dial or text 2-1-1 or visit informationbrucegrey.ca.