Have you ever heard of dialing 211?
Many British Columbians are unaware that a simple call to 211 can connect them to essential resources when they need help the most.
To raise awareness of this vital service, the Victoria Street Bridge — along with bridges from 10 cities across the province — will be illuminated red on Tuesday, Feb. 11, in recognition of “211 Day.”
This annual initiative highlights the importance of 211, a free and confidential service that helps people navigate the often-complex network of social, government, and community support programs.
Whether someone is seeking housing, food assistance, financial aid, counselling, or other critical services, 211 provides a direct line to help — 24/7, 365 days a year, in 240 languages.
People can simply dial or text 2-1-1 to connect with a trained navigator who will assess their situation and guide them to the right resources.
Another option is to visit bc.211.ca for online assistance.
“211 is a lifeline for people facing challenges in their lives,” said Madeleine Eagleton, contact centre manager at United Way BC.
“We provide personalized support, helping individuals navigate available services before their situations reach a crisis point. By listening, asking the right questions, and guiding people to the best resources, we’re able to offer critical help when it’s needed most.”
For those in need — or those who know someone who could use support — 211 is just a call away.
Growing need
According to the United Way, housing and mental health services are the top reasons British Columbians reach out to 211.
Housing instability and homelessness remain the most pressing concerns, while mental health-related calls have surged from fourth to second place, reflecting a rising demand for support in this area.
These trends align with broader issues in British Columbia, where housing affordability has reached crisis levels.
According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), B.C. has some of the highest rental costs in the country, with Vancouver consistently ranking as one of Canada’s least affordable cities.
The 2023 Homeless Count found that more than 13,000 people across the province were experiencing homelessness, a number that continues to climb due to a combination of economic pressures, lack of affordable housing, and mental health challenges.
211 data serves as a valuable tool for policymakers and service providers, offering insights into the province’s most urgent social issues.
By tracking call trends and identifying gaps in services, 211 helps direct resources where they are needed most.
Operated by United Way British Columbia, 211 BC is part of a North American-wide network.
