Transportation company Manitoulin Group of Companies and its staff have raised thousands of dollars and donated transportation services to assist the Alberta city of Fort McMurray after wildfires devastated that region in May.
The company and its employees raised $24,370 for the Canadian Red Cross, which was matched by the federal government for a total contribution of $36,555. Manitoulin additionally contributed transportation services to help get supplies to residents in need.
Manitoulin has a terminal in Fort McMurray, and when the fires broke out, the company’s first thought was for its employees and their families, company president Don Goodwill said in a release.
“We were relieved to learn they were safe,” he said. “Like everyone, we were horrified by the images on the news of the destruction and heartbreak this disaster has caused. We knew we had to do something to help make things better."
Gord Smith, CEO of Manitoulin Group of Companies, said the outreach is reflective of the company’s culture and it would continue to assist where possible.
"We have the means to help in a practical sense so we are doing what we can," said Smith. "And we plan to provide further support to help rebuild the community."
Manitoulin's Fort McMurray terminal was not damaged by the fires. It reopened on Friday, June 2 and normal business operations have resumed.
Manitoulin Group of Companies is headquartered in Gore Bay on Manitoulin Island.
