Information program expands

A program designed to give provincial residents easy access to information on community and government programs and services is expanding.

The 211 program is a not-forprofit phone and web-based service which residents can now access by text or chat.

The number to text, from any mobile device will be 21167 (the number “67” corresponds to “NS” on a phone pad) and chat will be available on the 211NS website — www.ns.211.ca .

The service was first launched in 2013 and has recorded over 100,000 phone calls and nearly 300,000 have accessed information through the organization’s website.

“As soon as we recognized that millennials were under represented in the population 211 serves, we knew it was time to rethink our communications strategy,” said 211 Executive Director Mike Myette, in a press release.

“This move was critical to ensuring everyone is able to find the help they need when they need it.”

In addition, 211 Nova Scotia has partnered with StudentsNS on a project to create awareness among university students.

“Students, especially those from other provinces or countries, can definitely benefit from having information about community services, and we hope adding 211 text and chat will make these services even more accessible,” said Sophie Helpard, executive director of StudentsNS.

The new developments in the program come courtesy of funding Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA), and Bell Mobility.

Frank O’Sullivan, executive director of the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians, said the availability of chat and text will go a long way to enhancing access to service for deaf and hard of hearing residents.

The service is available by phone 24/7 or online at www. ns.211.ca. Interpretation services are also available in over 140 languages. The service is also funded by the province and United Way organizations in Cape Breton, Pictou, Colchester, Cumberland, Halifax and Lunenburg.

For more information visit ns.211.ca or dial 211.