Newly launched database connects users to more than 12,000 services

Okanagan Weekend staff

An online database with information about social, community and government services is now available for residents in the Okanagan.

Bc211.ca is an online database that includes more than 12,000 services and organizations available to help people.

Information available includes employment support, legal assistance, mental health and addiction services, housing options, seniors’ services and children and youth services.

An online chat is available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

“At bc211, we have prompts that help people narrow down their search, assist them in finding the services that most meet their needs, closest to where they live,” said Nathan Wright, executive director, bc211.

Bc211 launched in 2010 in partnership with the United Way of the Lower Mainland with phone and online services serving Metro Vancouver.

Access to 211 via telephone is not yet available in the Okanagan.

“We’re hoping sometime in the next year or two,” said Wright.

Bc211 is made possible through partnerships with the United Way.

“Sometimes the biggest barrier to getting help is knowing where to look,” said Kathy Conway, board chairwoman for United Way Central and South Okanagan Similkameen.