Syncrude supports new Quilt Room at Ronald McDonald House(R) Northern Alberta

FORT MCMURRAY, AB, April 22 /CNW/ - Syncrude's commitment of $110,000 to Ronald McDonald House(R) Northern Alberta is commemorated today with the unveiling of the newly remodeled Quilt Room, of which Syncrude is the title sponsor.

Syncrude's financial support includes a $50,000 donation toward Ronald McDonald House(R) Northern Alberta's expansion, completed in March 2009. In addition, Syncrude committed $60,000 over three years toward care packages filled with basic necessities that families may need during their visit such as shampoo, soap and toothpaste.

"We are honoured to support the House and the vital service it provides to children and families from across northern Alberta seeking treatment in Edmonton," said Syncrude President and CEO Tom Katinas. "As the Quilt Room title sponsor, we were pleased to influence the design of a mural that depicts a serene and idyllic forest setting and turns the room into an Enchanted Forest for the children."

Ronald McDonald House(R) Northern Alberta provides a home away from home and support for sick children and their families. Since opening in 1985, the purpose of the House has remained the same: keeping families together while the child is being treated for illness in a compassionate and comfortable, home-like atmosphere.

"We are thrilled to open this newly created area of the House," says Larry Mathieson, Executive Director of the House. "Syncrude's generous commitment has allowed us to provide a room of comfort and warmth to families staying here. Families who first arrive at the House may be feeling emotionally drained and we are pleased we can provide a care package filled with the usual comforts of home."

"Syncrude congratulates Ronald McDonald House(R) Northern Alberta on its 25th Anniversary of opening its doors to families during the most stressful of times," said Katinas. "We are very proud to be part of a community that comes together when it matters most and help the people who need it most."

The Syncrude Project is a Joint Venture undertaking among Canadian Oil Sands Limited, ConocoPhillips Oil Sand Partnership II, Imperial Oil Resources, Mocal Energy Limited, Murphy Oil Company Ltd., Nexen Oil Sands Partnership, and Petro-Canada Oil and Gas (a Suncor Energy Business).

For further information: Cheryl Robb, Syncrude, [phone] or Syncrude's website at www.syncrude.com; Kelly Knight, Ronald McDonald House(R) Southern Alberta, [phone], ext. 139 or cell [phone]