Providing real time access to support services is core to the mission of the bc211 service. At the Public Safety Event at Guildford Town Centre Mall on April 8, the City of Surrey announced a partnership with bc211 to improve access to information for our most vulnerable residents.
The bc211 service provides information and advice to citizens to help them identify services that meet their needs. Their operators can deliver services in dozens of languages, which is critical given almost half of Surrey residents speak, a language other than English as their home language. Through their website, text messaging service and 211 phone line they have operators ready to assist Surrey residents, and those from across B.C., 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week.
This initiative is one of the 35 programs delivered under the City’s Public Safety Strategy launched in October 2016 by Mayor Linda Hepner. “Together we can raise awareness of the many services that are available in the community to help people,” said Mayor Linda Hepner. “The bc211 service covers everything from housing, to addiction support services, to services specific for First Nations groups, seniors and youth. It is a welcome addition to our Public Safety Strategy.”
The bc211 service maintains a list of shelter beds available which is updated twice a day to keep the information as current as possible. Working together the partners will be able to provide enhanced service for Surrey residents and make it much easier for people to find the help they need in real time. bc211 will work with the City of Surrey to promote this service and update information specific to Surrey service providers.
The bc211 services is supported by the United Way who spoke at today’s announcement. “This event and our partnership with the City of Surrey is an important part of our outreach across the community, and we are excited to promote our support for Surrey residents” said Jeff Calbick, VP, Community Impact & Investing with United Way.
“Our priority is to provide an engaging and interactive place for our community to learn more in how they can make their families and neighbourhoods safer. These events are a way for our residents to get practical tips for their safety in a family friendly setting. While public safety is a serious topic we want to engage everyone, our youth, our newcomers, our seniors, and families to get involved. We are coming to a variety of neighbourhoods with innovative new displays along with our partners” said Dr. Waterhouse.
Upcoming events will be held in South Surrey, Cloverdale, and Fleetwood. For a full list of event locations and more details on the events residents can visit surrey.ca.
