Manitobans have increased access to thousands of government and community-based resources thanks to an easy-to-remember, free telephone service.

While 2-1-1 can help with day-to-day needs, the service also provides support for stressful situations before they escalate into a crisis.

Last year, over 200,000 Manitobans accessed the 2-1-1 online database that has existed in Manitoba since 2017 but the phone line launched for the first time in the province this week, thanks to the United Way.

Connie Walker, president and CEO with United Way Winnipeg, explains the operator on the other end of the line is a trained professional that can help the caller find the right support as quickly as possible.

"It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, so when people do ask we want them to find the right support as quickly as possible. So now Manitobans can pick up the phone, call 2-1-1 and talk with someone about their needs."

"You can ask the operator about anything that might be troubling you or your family or your neighbours," she added.

While 2-1-1 can help with day-to-day needs, the service also provides support for stressful situations before they escalate into a crisis. Callers could include seniors or individuals with disabilities looking for home-care supports, those looking to access the job market or housing and support for the homeless as well as parenting resources, addiction treatment options or shelter in times of extreme weather.

It's all been made possible thanks to a grant from the Government of Canada, however that funding will only maintain the service until March 31, 2021. Walker says they'll be looking for further government partnerships to keep 2-1-1 running in Manitoba beyond that date. Work is underway to update the business case for the service.

Walker noted, officials are quite confident in the value that 2-1-1 can provide not only to citizens but to the broader community and province at-large.

Co-managed by Volunteer Manitoba, 2-1-1 is also free of charge and open 24/7.