EAPO informed individuals about essential and valuable helplines available in Ontario. In this webinar, representatives from 211, 311, 911 and 988 Crisis Line shared their specific offerings in supporting individuals, how their services can be accessed (i.e. phone, website, online/chat, phone, text), clarifed any misconceptions about their services, and discussed the positive impact their services have had in helping seniors, caregivers, and families find and access supports and resources they need.
211
211 is a helpline that easily connects people to the social services, programs and community supports they need.
311
311 provides residents, businesses and visitors with easy access to non-emergency City services, programs and information 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 311 can offer assistance in more than 180 languages.
811
Access safe, high-quality care and avoid unnecessary visits to the emergency room. This service is an easy way to get connected to care you or your loved ones need, but it does not replace your other touch point with your health care provider. In a medical emergency call 911 immediately. Call 811 for health advice or information. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-0007. Start a live chat with an advisor.
911
An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from a police officer, a firefighter or a paramedic. Sometimes all three will respond, such as in the event of a serious traffic collision where people are trapped or injured. If you are ever in doubt of whether a situation is an emergency, you should call 9-1-1.
It’s better to be safe and let the 9-1-1 calltaker determine if you need emergency assistance.
988
If you are feeling like you have lost hope and are struggling to cope, if you are dealing with thoughts of suicide, or if you are worried about someone else, 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is here for you. When you reach out, a trained responder will listen without judgement, provide support and understanding, and can tell you about resources that will help.
