In an effort to support those who have been impacted by the recent wildfires in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Rio Tinto’s Diavik diamond mine announced on Friday a donation of C$250,000 ($184,200) to the United Way Northwest Territories (UWNWT) to support with wildfire response efforts.
This donation comes from the Rio Tinto Disaster Relief Fund, it said.
The donated funds will directly assist registered charities to address immediate crisis requirements, with an emphasis on essential needs such as food, fuel, and other critical incidentals for NWT communities and evacuees.
“At Diavik, we understand the importance of community resilience and timely support,” Diavik Diamond Mine president and chief operating officer Angela Bigg said in the statement. “Our hearts go out to everyone impacted, which includes many of our own employees.”
“This contribution is a testament to our long-standing commitment to supporting our communities, especially when they need it the most. Our partnership with the United Way will help ensure that the necessary resources promptly reach those in dire need.”
The UWNWT emergency response program has been pivotal in assisting communities through challenging times. The fund has been structured to ensure that all donations are directed for the purpose they were intended.
Under Rio Tinto’s parameters, registered charities are able to apply for the funding, however individual recipients are not eligible. Rio Tinto said it is committed to supporting Indigenous governments and community-led efforts, and looks forward to working with the United Way to ensure a streamlined community-centred approach.
Rio also said it continues to monitor the situation and evaluate the needs of the communities, as well as its employees and contractors.