AFSC’s Response
to COVID-19:
March 22 update
COVID-19
At AFSC, amidst the challenge of COVID-19, we remain focused on building a strong, growing, diversified agriculture and agri-food sector in Alberta—where agriculture is not only a key industry—it is a way of life. For over 80 years, it has been our role to help Alberta farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses achieve success, especially during difficult times.
At this time, the health of our clients and colleagues remains a top priority.
At AFSC, amidst the challenge of COVID-19, we remain focused on building a strong, growing, diversified agriculture and agri-food sector in Alberta—where agriculture is not only a key industry—it is a way of life. For over 80 years, it has been our role to help Alberta farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses achieve success, especially during difficult times.
At this time, the health of our clients and colleagues remains a top priority. To help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep communities across Alberta safe and healthy, we are instituting controlled access at all of our branches, effective immediately.
Our strong preference is for our valued clients to access one of our other delivery channels (see below) until this pandemic is under control and our world returns to normal:
- Branch employees and relationship managers will take calls directly from clients
- Our Client Service Centre will also take calls directly from clients at 1.877.899.2372
- E-mail service is available to ask questions or discuss options
- Online service through AFSC Connect is available 24/7 for products supported in the system; while logged into AFSC Connect during business hours online chat is available
Should you believe it is necessary to present at a branch, you will be asked to answer the following questions as per AHS protocol:
- Do you have a fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, or shortness of breath?
- Have you travelled outside of Canada within the last 14 days?
- Have you been exposed to someone who is, or may be, infected with the COVID-19 virus?
If you answer yes to any one of these questions, we will kindly ask that we deliver our excellent client service to you via one of our above mentioned delivery channels. Handwashing/sanitizing and social distancing protocols will apply if visitation proceeds.
This past year has been a challenging one and we want you to know we are here to support you.
Given the impact of COVID-19, we recognize the potential financial strain this may cause you. We encourage our clients to contact their Relationship Manager to discuss a personalized solution, including things such as loan payment relief through interest-only payments, payment re-amortization or payment deferral options.
AFSC is committed to working with you today, tomorrow and into the future.
Please continue to watch our website and follow our social media channels for updates on our continued response to COVID-19.
Steve Blakely,
CEO
March 20, 2020
For over 80 years, it has been our role to help Alberta farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses achieve success, especially during difficult times.
We recognize the potential financial strain that COVID-19 may present to your operation. We encourage our clients to contact their Relationship Manager to discuss a personalized solution, including things such as loan payment relief through interest-only payments or payment deferral.
To expedite processing, streamlined approval criteria has been established. Conditions may apply depending on individual circumstances. Payment deferral options are available for eligible participants.
With the challenges this past year, we want you to know we are here to support you.
Call our Client Services Centre at 1.877.899.2372 or contact your local Relationship Manager.
March 13, 2020
To our valued clients,
The safety and well-being of our people, our clients and our communities is our top concern. As such, I wanted to personally reach out to you and provide an update on the precautionary actions AFSC is taking to help address growing concerns around the spread of COVID-19.
Our branch offices remain open during regular hours; however, we are taking additional steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We have added hand sanitizing stations at all branches and adjusted our janitorial standards to help limit the spread of germs. Branch offices are open, and, alternately, we encourage clients to utilize AFSC Connect and live chat, call the Client Service Centre or reach out to their Relationship Manager via email or phone, particularly if they have recently travelled or are feeling unwell.
In line with the Government of Alberta’s recommendations to cancel all large gatherings, AFSC has suspended attendance at tradeshows, conferences and learning events for the foreseeable future.
For updates on AFSC’s response to COVID-19, please stay tuned to AFSC.ca and our social media channels. For information and on COVID-19 visit Alberta Health Services. To learn about the Government of Alberta’s response please click here.
Sincerely,
Steve Blakely
CEO