211 is an easy to remember 3 digit telephone number that, in one call, connects people to a full range of community, health, government and social services information.
211 is free, confidential, multilingual and available 24 hours a day. 211 is answered by certified Information & Referral Specialists who are carefully trained to assess complex needs and refer the caller to appropriate services.
211 can help you find:
- basic needs (food, clothing, shelter and financial support)
- employment resources
- parenting support
- counselling/support groups
- health care
- legal services
- and MUCH more…
Callers often make contact because of one need (e.g. food bank), but during assessment realize there are other issues that are connected (e.g. lack of training, unemployment, debt, bills). 211 can address all issues in one call.
211 is:
- Free
- Confidential
- Multilingual
- Available 24 hours a day
Welcome to 211 Alberta
211 was launched in Edmonton in 2004 by The Support Network and in Calgary in 2005 by Distress Centre Calgary. United Way was instrumental in bringing 211 to cities in Alberta, and it is now playing a leading role, along with many community partners, to initiate and implement a provincial service so more people can benefit from the 24 hour support.
The 211 service is an enhancement, not a replacement, of local Information & Referral services currently operating across the province. In addition to helping people find the information they need, 211 analyzes data from calls to identify emerging needs, gaps in services and areas of high demand. 211 will share this data with various stakeholders, including local municipalities.
Please see the city specific pages of this site for more information.
