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The Co-operators accommodate Powell River customers amid challenging times

Company maintains services during crisis
The Co-operators Powell River
[From left] The Co-operators office manager Nancy Howlin, CEO Kevin Sigouin and assistant regional supervisor Greg Babcock. Paul Galinski photo

Doors may be closed at The Co-operators, but the company is still open to serve communities in the Powell River region. 

“A few weeks ago we made the difficult decision to close our doors to the public to do our part to flatten the curve and help protect our clients, staff and the community in these challenging times,” says Kevin Sigouin, CEO. “Although our doors are closed, we are still able to serve our clients over the phone and by email.”   

Many of The Co-operators staff have transitioned to working from home and are still serving clients by phone and email from 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday.

“Our call volumes are very high, so if we don’t answer please leave us a message with your name, phone number, email address and how we can help you,” says Kevin. “We appreciate the support and patience of our clients during this transition. We are doing our best to return client calls and reply to emails as soon as possible.” 

The best way to speak with a Powell River agent is to call the office at 604.485.7931 and choose option three. Clients can also email powellriver_crossroads@cooperators.ca. 

Most transactions for home, commercial and farm insurance continue to be processed as normal. For ICBC transactions, it really is “business as unusual” for everyone as the team gets used to the new ways of processing ICBC. 

“In order to complete an ICBC transaction, we’ll need to speak to clients by phone and they’ll need access to email,” explains Kevin. “They may also need their driver’s licence, ICBC documents, and even a photo of their odometer when renewing.” Although transactions are taking longer than usual, the team at The Co-operators is working hard to make the process as seamless as possible.

“When it comes to driver’s licensing you will need to call 1.800.950.1498 in order to renew, reinstate or request a replacement driver’s licence,” says Kevin. “All road tests have been suspended across the province until further notice.” 

ICBC has made several temporary changes to help alleviate financial hardships for customers.

“Our staff members are happy to help explain these changes in more detail,” adds Kevin.

The changes are also outlined on ICBC’s website at icbc.com. 

The Co-operators is also reminding the community that First Insurance and Westview Agencies now operate under one roof and have rebranded to The Co-operators. While the organization’s name may have changed, the same great staff remain and are committed to serving their clients, says Kevin.

“I am proud that our employees are finding ways to make a difference for our clients and I am proud to watch our community come together under these difficult circumstances,” he adds. “Together we will get through these challenging times. Please be safe, stay connected and reach out to us when you’re in need.”