Calling 211 for help

There’s 411, 311 and of course the most well-known 3 digit number 911, but did you know there’s also 211?

February 11th is 211 day across North America. It’s a free, 3-digit helpline, so if people are looking for access to community, government, or social services they can dial 211.

That includes everything from not being able to afford living expenses, job losses, or something as simple as helping the caller locate their nearest walk-in clinic.

211 is staffed 24-7. The centre in St Catharines services much of Southern Ontario and the Golden Horseshoe. On average they take about 200 calls a day.

Also just launched is an online chat option, where people can connect with someone on their mobile devices or computers.

211 is funded by all three levels of government as well as the United Way. It’s funded by the province by the ministry of community and social services.