About 211 British Columbia
What is 211?
211 is a free and confidential service that connects people to helpful and vital resources in their community.
We provide information and referral to a broad range of community, government, and social services that assist with:
- basic needs like food and shelter
- mental health and addictions support
- legal and financial assistance
- support for seniors, newcomers
And much more.
211 British Columbia is accredited by the Inform USA (formerly AIRS), and meets international standards relating to call response, privacy and confidentiality, and quality and accuracy of resources listed in the database.
If you’re new to 211, learn more about making the most of the resources available to you and those you know.
Origins
United Way BC’s Helpline Services originated back in 1953 when Vancouver’s Community Information Service was formed.
In 1958, the first edition of the Directory of Health, Welfare and Recreation Services was published and later became the Red Book. Published for many years and known as the go-to directory of social services in the Lower Mainland, the Red Book eventually evolved into the 211 online database of resources.
In April 2010, the 211 service was first introduced regionally in British Columbia by the 211 British Columbia Services Society, operating under the name BC211. Over the next decade, 211 grew to offer service by phone, text, website, email, and webchat.
In March 2020, BC211 was called to service as part of the Province of British Columbia’s emergency response to COVID 19, and service was expanded province-wide.
On April 1, 2022, BC211 integrated with United Way British Columbia further strengthening our ability to connect all British Columbians to vital community programs and services
Timeline
2010
- 211 British Columbia Services Society, operating under the name BC211, was officially launched, serving people in Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley, and Squamish-Lillooet Regional Districts.
2014
- 211 phone service expanded to the Sunshine Coast Regional District.
2015
- 211 text service was added.
2017
- 211 phone service was expanded to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
- A new website was launched enabling province-wide online services.
- 211 webchat service was introduced.
2020
- 211 service became available province-wide.
2022
- BC211 integrated with United Way British Columbia.
Funders
211 British Columbia is made possible through the support of United Way and the BC Ministry of Health.
