Syncrude announced they would donate three million dollars to several local programs and initiatives.
The announcement serves to commemorate its production milestone of three billion barrels of crude oil from Mildred Lake.
Manager of government and public affairs, Maggie Grant said they couldn’t accomplish their milestone alone.
“It’s part of our continuing commitment to Wood Buffalo region to really support projects and organizations that are important to us at Syncrude, and because they’re important to the residents here.”
Grant said the new investments would fund several key programs:
- University of Alberta Faculty of Engineering for student engagement in northern communities
- Tree Canada Operation ReLeaf program
- Inside Education’s Wood Buffalo Environment Education Project
- A machining program with the Fort McMurray Catholic School District
- An apprenticeship program with CAREERS: The Next Generation
- E-learning program with the Fort McKay First Nation and an education training program with the Mikisew Cree First Nation.
Investment highlights
Grant said Syncrude really connected with Tree Canada’s Operation ReLeaf.
“It’s an initiative to replant sites that local community members identified as priority areas.”
She added some of those zones may include areas touched by the 2016 wildfire.
Also, Syncrude announced funding for Inside Education’s project.
“It will be a multi-year effort that will bring [environment] education directly to the schools in the region as well as business communities.”
Finally, Grant touched on the partnerships with Indigenous communities.
She said the E-learning program with Fort McKay First Nation supports their high-risk students.
Meanwhile, the training program at Mikisew Cree First Nation would help enhance the employability of its members in Wood Buffalo.
“They can complete their education in an environment that supports their academic, social, health and cultural needs. It’s really to set them up for success, and that really important sense of self-achievement.”
These initiatives join ongoing partnerships with Girls Inc., the Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre, and Syncrude Arts Alive Series at Keyano Theatre.
Since 1999, Syncrude dedicated $84-million to various projects and organizations in the region.
