Each week we will post a summary of interesting and representative 211 calls. This week, we have a connection from Manitoba.

Manitoba:

Searching for housing can be both confusing and frustrating. Fortunately, 211 Service Navigators are there 24 hours to give people guidance and direction as they are looking for appropriate housing.

A 211 Service Navigator took a call from an older adult looking for subsidized housing in Winnipeg. He did not understand how subsidized housing works, and was looking for some help and guidance.

The Service Navigator spent some time with the caller providing information on how subsidized housing functions, so that the caller could feel more informed. The caller said that he appreciated this. They went over some organizations that the caller could contact to apply, and also discussed some buildings that are strictly for seniors which he was also interested in.

They brainstormed some avenues for rent assistance, and the Service Navigator provided detailed information on programs to help with his current rent payments. The Service Navigator made sure the caller understood how to proceed going forward with the different applications and that he felt confident in what to do next. The caller thanked the Service Navigator, and the Service Navigator made sure that the caller understood that he could call back for more information and referrals to community agencies anytime.