Since May of 2020, United Way Perth-Huron’s Urgent Needs Fund has provided $278,801 to 1,642 vulnerable individuals and families across the region in a time of immediate, pressing need. Now, the organization is pioneering a new process by bringing together access to the UNF with the 211 helpline.

“This is a great next step for the Urgent Needs Fund program,” said United Way Perth-Huron Director Governance & Community Impact Megan Partridge. “United Way is thankful to the City of Stratford Social Services Department and the County of Huron Social & Property Services Department for administering UNF funds since May 2020. We are pleased to expand this support now to include 211 referral.”

Available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year in over 150 languages, dialling 2-1-1 puts people in touch with a trained 211 Navigator who will assess the caller’s challenges and search for local supports and solutions. If the navigator determines the UNF would be the best way to help, they will begin the simple, non-judgemental application process to the UWPH supported fund.

“We’re proud of the positive impact 211 and the Urgent Needs Fund have had separately on the lives of local people in need,” added United Way Perth-Huron Executive Director Ryan Erb. “We also understand when people are looking for supports such as the Urgent Needs Fund they may be facing challenges that could be better addressed by other programs and services. By bringing these services together, we’re building a more powerful resource for vulnerable people looking for help in their community.”