Syncrude supports the creation of more childcare spaces

FORT McMURRAY, AB, Dec. 1 /CNW/ - Syncrude has partnered with the local YMCA and Public School District in an initiative to increase childcare spaces within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Syncrude has committed $250,000 over two years toward the undertaking as well as other expansion projects.

"Ensuring our children are well cared for while we are working is important, whether you work at an oil sands operation or elsewhere in the community," said Syncrude President and CEO Tom Katinas. "That's why it's vital for us to support the efforts of the YMCA and Public School District."

The project will see a potential of 140 childcare spaces created within the next 12 to 18 months. There will be one new day care facility housed out of Greely Road School and two expansions in existing YMCA facilities (Reidel and Birchwood locations).

"The Public School District is very thankful to Syncrude's generous donation and assistance in providing a comfort and safety level for parents and students. Nothing is more important, to a parent/guardian, than to know their child is safe while they are finishing their day at work," said Phil Meagher , Associate Superintendent, Fort McMurray Public School District. "This takes an enormous worry off their plates and provides more choice for parents/guardians."

The YMCA is also working very closely with the Public School District on the existing After School Care Program offered throughout Fort McMurray and is continuing to look at future opportunities with additional schools.

"The YMCA's vision is to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities and by expanding our childcare program, we are offering services to our community that will help us work towards securing our vision," said Sonya Earle , Director of Childcare, YMCA Wood Buffalo. "With the Public School Board's partnership and Syncrude's support, we expect that by mid-2010, the YMCA will be offering many more licensed childcare spaces within Fort McMurray."

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, [phone] or Syncrude's website at www.syncrude.com; Phil Meagher, Public School Board, [phone] or [phone]; Sonya Earle, YMCA, [phone]