When we launched 211 in New Brunswick a little more than seven months ago, we knew there was a need for the service. Little did we know how much of a need.
Free and confidential, 211 is an information and referral service that quickly connects people to critical human, social, community and government support. The service helps them navigate the complex network of government and community programs and services quickly in order to find what they need.
Phones are answered 24/7, 365 days a year. Service is provided in 170 languages through interpretation services.
We call it “the front door to help.”
And help it has.
Since launching last October 2020, 211 Community Navigators have answered well more than 7,100 calls in New Brunswick, and connected those callers to the critical resources they needed, when they needed them most.
Single mothers called looking to see how 211 could help make sure their families would always be OK. Fathers picked up the phone for their children struggling with mental health.
Seniors called in for help with their taxes and overcoming loneliness. Community organizations dialed 2-1-1 to support their clients and their communities.
Life can be hard, but finding help doesn’t have to be. Anyone looking to access 211 services can reach them by emailing 211nb@findhelp.ca or by dialing:
Call volumes have exceeded our expectations by 25 per cent. Though the top reasons for calling include access to food assistance, mental health services, financial assistance and affordable housing, it’s important to remember that 211 can help with so much more. For any non-emergency need, when people don’t know where to turn, help starts at 211.
We are so grateful to United Way donors across New Brunswick – your support helps us run this community service. We are thankful to the federal government for providing crucial funding that allowed us to launch 211 here, and we are immensely appreciative of the ongoing support of the provincial government in ensuring the continuity of the service. We work with truly incredible partners who care deeply, and it shows in the service we provide. The work 211 is doing is reflective of New Brunswick’s community spirit, and in years to come, when we look back on our beginnings, we will know that we did it together.
Your support is making a difference.
Sincerely,
Mischka Jacobs
211 NB Director of Community Engagement