We are in this together.
Westoba is focused on the health of our members, employees, and communities. We have a dedicated Incident Response Team following the recommendations of reputable sources such as the World Health Organization and the Public Health Agency of Canada. We are assessing and adjusting our response as the COVID-19 situation unfolds.
As an identified essential service for Canadians by the Government of Canada, we are using our resources to adapt and serve members in a variety of ways. Our long-term goal is to provide banking services to all our members while keeping everyone healthy and safe. In some areas, that may mean reduced in-branch services based on staff availability. We are asking members to use our digital banking methods first and going into your nearest branch second.
How are we flattening the curve?
Flattening the curve at Westoba means doing our utmost to prevent the spread of COVID-19 through social distancing, following strict hygiene practices and supporting our employees and members. In some of the regions we serve, we are experiencing staffing shortages due to school and daycare closures. To support staff who need to stay home during this time, we have temporarily closed some branches and redirected staff to keep other key branches open.
The branch closures are not permanent, and we plan to have all our branches back up and running when staffing returns to normal levels. Click here for a full list of changes to our operational hours.
We‘re here for you financially.
These are uncertain times, and we understand members and communities have concerns about what this might mean for their immediate and future financial situation. Westoba is helping by:
- Waiving fees on easy to access digital banking options until mid-April. See a list of waived fees here.
- All members who have incurred financial hardship due to the current COVID-19 situation are eligible for loan and mortgage deferrals. Our Virtual Services Team or Financial Consultants can provide advice for you. Call 1-877-WESTOBA to talk about your options.
We have virtual banking options.
The safest way to bank right now is digitally. Members can continue to have uninterrupted banking, using channels such as the WestobaGo Mobile App, online banking, or calling our Virtual Services Team at 1-877-WESTOBA. We have introduced Golden Banking Hours in our branches for seniors and those with mobility issues, Monday to Friday 9:00am – 10:30am.
If you have never used digital channels before, now is the time! Our Virtual Services Team can walk you through getting set up to bank from home.
Thank you to our members!
We appreciate your understanding during these times and want to thank you for being resilient and adaptable in the way you‘re banking. We promise to keep you up to date on important information. Please be safe and continue to protect yourself and your families. We‘re in this together!
Sincerely,
Jim Rediger, President and CEO
