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

No one should have to live with fear and abuse. Calling 211 is a safe and confidential way to find support to leave an abusive situation.

A single mother called 211 because she did not know how to access help. She had moved to New Brunswick from Ontario to live with her adult son, but he was being abusive towards herself and her daughter. She had nowhere to go and no income. She also mentioned that she would like to register her daughter in school. She did not know where to get help in her new city. 

The Service Navigator empathized with her situation and reassured her that there are community resources to assist her in Moncton. The Service Navigator also made sure that the caller was physically safe at the time of her call, which she was. 

The caller was provided a referral to a safe place for women and children who are victims of violence, guided on how to apply for income assistance in New Brunswick, and was also provided with the name of the community agency that supports families in difficulties with practical help including school supplies. The caller was relieved, telling the Service Navigator: “Thank you. I needed that reassurance that there is help available.”