FREDERICTON (GNB) – The 211 phone service has been expanded to include a new searchable online database, nb.211.ca, which provides information on community and government resources in New Brunswick.

211 is an information and referral service that connects New Brunswickers to critical human, social, community and government support. Free and confidential, the service helps people navigate government and community programs and services quickly to find what they need for their unique situation. Phones are answered 24/7, 365 days a year, in both official languages and 170 other languages through interpretation services.

“We are pleased to support the development and expansion of the 211 service to assist more New Brunswickers in getting the help they need,” said Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch. “When someone contacts 211, they are connected with a real person who takes the time to learn about the caller’s situation in order to recommend the programs or services that can respond to their specific needs.”

The development of the 211 service, including the new searchable online database, is the result of a partnership between the Department of Social Development, United Way Canada, the three regional United Ways in New Brunswick (Greater Moncton and Southeastern N.B.; Central N.B.; Saint John, Kings & Charlotte), FindHelp Information Services and the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation. The Department of Social Development and the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation are providing $350,000 and $200,000, respectively, in funding to support the operational costs of the 211 service.

“While we pride ourselves on the human touch that the community navigators provide to callers at the other end of the line, the launch of the new 211 NB portal represents a step in the right direction in terms of expanding the service’s accessibility to better serve community members who may face barriers to reaching us by phone,” said Debbie McInnis, CEO of United Way Moncton.

Since its launch in October 2020, the 211 phone service has received nearly 9,000 calls. While the majority of calls have come from urban centres, many calls have come from rural areas, and 21 per cent of them were made overnight.

The 211 phone and online services complement other phone services in New Brunswick:

  • 311 – provides information about municipal services;
  • 411 – provides directory assistance;
  • 511 – provides information on road conditions;
  • 811 – provides health advice and information; and
  • 911 – responds to life and property threatening emergencies.

In addition to the 211 online service, New Brunswickers also have access to Social Supports NB, a user-friendly website that contains information on government and community programs and services including for housing, health services and home care. This website covers a wide range of governmental and community services and programs targeted towards seniors and their families.

 

 

 

04-08-21