United Way supports 211 helpline

The winter months can cause both financial and emotional stress, especially for people living on a low income or coping with a change in their circumstances.

The United Way is proud to support the 211 helpline, which provides individuals and families with the help they need to brave the winter season. By calling 2-1-1 from anywhere in Ontario, or visiting www.ontario211.ca, residents can access a wide variety of community services, including:
 

• Community Volunteer Tax Clinics, offering low-income individuals and families help to file their taxes.
• Financial support with utility bills, keeping heat on for families during the cold months of winter.
• Holiday toy programs, helping all children experience the joys of the holiday season.
• Holiday meals and gift baskets to combat the hunger and isolation that winter and poverty can bring.
• Out of the Cold programs, providing hot meals and/or beds to the homeless and hungry.
• Snow removal for seniors and people with disabilities.
• Winter coats and boots for children to keep them warm through the cold of winter.
• Support for the homeless, including winter clothing, boots, sleeping bags and care kits.
• Meals on Wheels and transportation assistance for seniors and those with disabilities, helping them eat enough food through the winter and make it to critical medical appointments in any weather.
• Friendly visits and calls for seniors, keeping them connected and providing cheer during the holidays.
• Recreation opportunities, providing ways to make friends, get active and reduce isolation.
• Mental health programs, including distress lines, crisis programs, support groups and more.

“Poverty is a far-reaching and complex issue," says Francesca Dobbyn, executive director of the United Way of Bruce Grey. "The challenges it brings are never more difficult than during the winter and the holiday season. United Way partners with agencies throughout Ontario to support community services that can be accessed through 211. These services help people stay connected and healthy during these cold months, even on a limited income.”

Calling 2-1-1 is the easy way to access financial, emotional and other supports in Ontario communities this winter. Internet phone users can call 1-877-330-3213, and TTY users can call 1-888-340-1001.

About Ontario 211 and the United Way

211 is a three-digit number that helps Ontarians navigate the complex network of human services quickly and easily, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in more than 100 languages. Ontario 211 Services is a non-profit agency, established to develop and govern the 211 system in Ontario. 211 is supported by the Province of Ontario and Green Shield Canada, and is a proud partner of United Ways across the province. Through its partnership with 211 and investment in hundreds of community programs, United Way works to improve lives locally.