Ecosystem fit
How HelpSignal fits alongside existing tools
Local services
Providers know their hours, access rules, and current status.
Existing systems
Directories, 211, referral systems, and coordination tools help people and staff find and navigate services.
HelpSignal
A public place for the latest provider-reported status and access details.
- Provider updates
- Last-updated time
- Public instructions
People seeking help
Check the listing, then call the provider when possible before traveling.
How updates reach the public
Providers share their own status. Community reports are reviewed before they affect a listing.
Provider update
- 1A provider sends an update.
- 2HelpSignal labels it as provider-reported and shows when it was updated.
Community report
- 1Someone reports a change they noticed.
- 2HelpSignal reviews the report and may ask the provider to confirm it.
- 3The report does not change a provider-reported status on its own.
HelpSignal does not replace HMIS, coordinated entry, 211, provider intake, case management, or emergency services. It complements existing systems by adding a public-facing status layer for local urgent resources.
Sensitive or confidential locations are not shown publicly.