Shining bright for a good cause.
On February 11th, landmarks across Canada will glow in a brilliant red to celebrate 211 Day, shining a spotlight on the vital role 211 plays in connecting Canadians to critical government and community resources.
In Victoria, residents and visitors alike will see BC Parliament Buildings (both the Ceremonial Entrance and Fountains), Confederation Garden Park Fountain and Waterfall, and the Royal BC Museum illuminated red.
In BC, 211 is a free, confidential service that serves as a lifeline for those in need, and offers immediate access to essential support services such as food banks, mental health assistance, financial aid, and legal resources.
Whether you’re struggling to make ends meet or seeking guidance on navigating local services, 211 is there, 24/7, every day of the year.
“211 is a lifeline for people facing challenges in their lives,” said Madeleine Eagleton, Contact Centre Manager, United Way BC.
“We provide personalized support, helping individuals navigate available services before their situations reach a crisis point. By listening, asking the right questions, and guiding people to the best resources, we’re able to offer critical help when it’s needed most.”
For those in need, dialing or texting 2-1-1 or visiting bc.211.ca will connect individuals to a trained Resource Navigator.
Plus, the service operates in over 240 languages, ensuring that everyone can access help, no matter their background.
According to a media release from United Way, housing and mental health services are the top two areas of need in BC, with housing and homelessness being the most common reasons people reach out for assistance.
In addition, calls related to mental health have surged in recent years, moving from fourth to second place.
This reflects the growing demand for mental health services across the province and the increasing pressures on individuals and families facing these challenges.
The data collected through 211 also provides invaluable insights into the needs of communities, helping to inform decisions around policy and resource distribution, ensuring that social support services are directed where they are most needed.
On 211 Day, everyone is encouraged to share photos of these illuminated landmarks with the hashtags #211DayCanada, #UnitedGlow, and #HelpStartsHere.
Here are just a few of the other locations in BC where you’ll see the red lights:
- Ladysmith: City Hall
- Parksville: Civic and Technology Centre
- Port Coquitlam: City Hall
- Port Moody: City Hall
- Vancouver: BC Place (Northern Lights Display), Burrard Street Bridge, Canada Place (Sails of Light), City Hall, Pacific Coliseum (PNE), Science World
For a full list of participating landmarks across Canada, visit United Way’s website.
Let’s celebrate the power of community and ensure that help is just a phone call or text away.
