The Government of Alberta announced it will be doubling 211 funding from $7.5 million to more than $15 million over the next three years. November 23, 2022 (Photo LNN/211)

By Sarah Jones/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Funding for 211 Alberta to double over the next three years

Nov 26, 2022 | 2:20 PM

CALGARY – Call volume for 211 has remained high since 2020, which is why the Government of Alberta says an increase in funding will help the recovery-oriented system better serve the people of Alberta.

The province announced this week it will be doubling 211 funding from $7.5 million to more than $15 million over the next three years.

According to a media release from the government, the additional support will enable the call centre to increase its capacity, improve the way people are connected to services, enhance referral programs and crisis assistance.

211 helps provide individuals with a single point of contact for information regarding health services along with mental health and addiction support in their community.

Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Nicholas Milliken said, “Increasing funding for 211 is part of our government’s efforts to build a recovery-oriented system of care for mental health and addiction.”

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“Every month, thousands of Albertans across the province are reaching out to 211 for help, support and referrals to local services in their communities. For many of them, it’s a life-changing call,” he added.

In 2021, staff at 211 answered more than 100,000 requests from Albertans by phone, text and chat, while another 200,000 people accessed the online portal through the 211 website.

Dr. Nathaniel Day, medical director of the Virual Opioid Dependency Program with Alberta Health Services, says, “Expansion of 211 services will enable people to access much-needed care, including evidence-based addiction services like what we offer at Alberta’s Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP).”

“Alberta is a leading jurisdiction at helping people connect with much-needed opioid addiction treatment on demand,” Day went on. “In fact, today any Alberta resident can start treatment when and where they need it, with no cost and with no waitlist. Any steps taken to better work together and provide more straightforward access for those seeking help is going to benefit Albertans, their families and communities on their path to recovery.”

The Alberta government also plans to expand services in Calgary and Edmonton with $124 million in funding to build two brand new long-term residential addiction treatment centers to better connect individuals with overdose prevention supports.

Those interested in accessing support are encouraged to reach out to 211 as the service is free, confidential and available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.