New online tool will help vulnerable Manitobans, Premier Brian Pallister says
CBC News | Posted: March 23, 2020 6:26 PM | Last Updated: March 23, 2020
Help Next Door MB is an online tool that connects volunteers with people who need help
Manitobans looking to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic now have access to an online tool that can help them do just that.
The province and North Forge Technology Exchange, a tech company based in Winnipeg, announced the launch Help Next Door MB on Monday.
It matches volunteers with people seeking help with tasks or services, such as picking up groceries.
"This is the sort of thing that was being attempted by many wonderful Manitobans … using social media platforms and personal websites," said Jerin Valel, Manitoba's director of technology and transformation.
"We wanted a trusted source that Manitobans could turn to," Valel said about why the application was a developed.
A resident of a small town whose caregivers live in another province would be an example of how the tool can be used, he said.
WATCH | Premier Brian Pallister and Jerin Valel introduce Help Next Door MB:
The caregivers could use the app to search for someone who could check in with the person. A background check would be done on the volunteer they match with. If everything checks out, then the volunteer can check in on the person, Valel said.
"It's in its infancy," Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister said, and that the province is looking for other potential uses.
"We're talking about assisting vulnerable people in getting services that they need and help that they need."