(Blackburn News file photo)(Blackburn News file photo)
Midwestern

Expanded help through 211

A social support service introduced to the area nine years ago has some new features to help more people.

Perth-Huron United Way Executive Director Ryan Erb said the 211 service has been upgraded to include service in over 140 languages.

“If you've recently moved here and maybe struggle with English as your first language, one of the things about 211 that's amazing is there's a vast network across North America that can handle over 140 different languages," said Erb. "So when you call in you will be transferred to someone who can speak with you in your first language.”

And there are new features to try and make it more comfortable for young people.

“We know that youth access information differently," added Erb. "They don't necessarily want to pick up the phone and call somebody and talk to them. They're used to texting, they're used to searching for information on the web, so we've created this mobile-friendly website that allows them to look for information."

Erb said the 211 service is available throughout North America.

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