Extended hours for community help line

211, a free non-emergency telephone number that connects callers to a full range of community, social, government and health service information in Ottawa, extended its hours as of Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Phone lines will now be open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“During these busy and difficult economic times it is essential to have a reliable service that is available for you when you need it,” 211 communications and liaison officer Courtney Ott said in a released statement.

“With frequent news of economic downturn and everyday stresses, it is not surprising that people are worried for themselves and their families,” added Marie-Andrée Carrière, executive director of the Community Information Centre of Ottawa. “Knowing that 211 is available and that we have the resources and skilled professionals to help can make a big difference for many people.”

211's personal touch ensures callers always receive a live answer, a friendly voice and a caring ear. Callers are greeted with “211 bonjour!” instead of an automated menu, reducing a caller's level of anxiety, especially for those who may be hesitant to request assistance

Since switching from an unmemorable seven-digit phone number to an easy-to-remember three-digit number, the 211 service’s visibility and awareness have increased dramatically. The number of calls has surpassed 15,000 since 211’s official launch in September 2008.

The Community Information Centre of Ottawa’s information and referral counsellors are available seven days a week to assist Ottawa residents, their families and friends. 211 is free, confidential and multilingual (150 languages).