A technology startup in Calgary that helps align people in need with social services has received $ 2.5 million from the federal government to help it expand and grow nationwide.

Calgary-based technology company HelpSeeker, founded in 2018 by a team of Travis Turner and Alina Turner, offers a range of digital products designed to make it easier for people to access public, health and social services. It also offers special tools and services for social service agencies, providers and city governments.

The HelpSeeker app, which can be downloaded or downloaded via the Internet, searches for all social services, from community accommodation to mental health services, to support for child care, so that users can easily find the help they need. It is currently available in more than 200 communities in Western Canada and Toronto.

On Friday, Federal Minister for Families, Children and Social Development Ahmed Hussen announced that HelpSeeker would receive $ 2.5 million over three years to help 200 to 5,000 communities around the world. He said the investment supports the government’s national housing strategy, which aims to find unique and innovative solutions to the homeless problem in the country.