Question Period Note: SCHEDULED AND IN-PERSON OUTREACH

Based on health and safety concerns, the 247 Service Canada Scheduled Outreach sites and all in-person community outreach was suspended effective March 27, 2020. The decision followed a period of operational challenges that were forcing daily office closures across the country. Since then, Service Canada has put strategies in place to support vulnerable Canadians in accessing benefits and services.

• Although Service Canada Scheduled Outreach sites were suspended effective March 27, 2020, clients can still access Service Canada programs, services and benefits through our online services (Canada.ca/service-canada-home) or by calling the Service Canada Outreach Support Centre toll-free. [1-877-631-2657 (TTY at 1-833-719-2657)] to receive immediate assistance from a Service Canada representative.
• A phased approach to Scheduled Outreach reactivation began in April 2022, guided by the advice of public health authorities. Outreach locations will gradually reopen based on site by site assessments of health and safety measures against current federal guidance.

Based on health and safety concerns, the 247 Service Canada Scheduled Outreach sites and all in-person outreach was suspended effective March 27, 2020. The decision followed a period of operational challenges that were forcing daily office closures across the country. Since then, Service Canada has put strategies in place to support vulnerable Canadians in accessing benefits and services.

The Service Canada in-person network includes 317 Service Canada Centres, 247 Scheduled Outreach sites, and Community Outreach and Liaison Service (COLS).

Scheduled Outreach sites are supported by Service Canada staff who travel from a hub office to a pre-determined location on a regular basis (weekly, monthly, quarterly etc.) to provide access to services. On prearranged days, a host community partner provides a space for Service Canada staff to meet with the public.

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