StettlerLocal.com August 18, 2021 @ 10am
Since the COVID pandemic began closing down businesses across the country, both the Federal and Provincial support offices (Service Canada & Alberta Works) have indefinitely closed their branch office in Stettler.
Unfortunately, the pandemic has left more people in need of those services and this has put an increased strain, on the already thinly-spread, volunteer groups such as FCSS who have stepped in to help try to fill the gap closed support offices left.
Damien Kurek MP, says he understood the closures during the height of the pandemic, but isn’t sure why they remain closed. His office has reached out to Service Canada to inquire about the prolonged closures of the federal offices. He says that while in-person services have resumed at the regular centers, the outreach offices remained closed. When he asked if there was a timeline people could expect to see them opened, he was told there is no set time frame.
“Canadians have needed these services more in the last year and a half than they ever have.” - Damien Kurek.
Although both these offices do have online options, not everyone who requires their services has the proper equipment to access the online services or, they don’t have the tech savvy to do so confidently. Those in rural areas who may not have internet access are also stuck for assistance.
Kurek says he is aware of the strain this situation has put on not-for-profit groups or volunteer groups who have picked up the slack in trying to help people access the services they require, either by providing computers, walking them through the steps, or helping them to fill out forms. He says he noticed his office’s caseload increase within the first six months of the pandemic. He does want people to know that his office can help people who need the Service Canada services, and his office would be happy to help.
Damien Kurek, MP Battle River - Crowfoot
Email: Damien.Kurek@parl.gc.ca
Toll Free Phone: 1.800.665.4358
Stettler & District Family & Community Support Services
Email: shelly.walker@stettlercsc.ca
Phone: 403-742-2337
Web Address: www.stettlerfcss.com
Carson Ellis, Reporter
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