Good afternoon.

Nova Scotians are known for a generosity of spirit that compels them to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand when their neighbours need help. It’s what binds our tight-knit communities and makes our province so strong.

The urge to help those in need is not reserved only for individuals. We are very fortunate in Nova Scotia to have a generous corporate community that steps up when it sees a need.

This winter, Nova Scotia Power, Irving, Blue Wave Energy, Ultramar, Superline Fuels and Wilson’s Fuel saw that some Nova Scotians were struggling with home heating costs. They are acting today to ease the burden for hundreds of families – with donations of heating oil and money worth one hundred and fifteen thousand dollars.

With this gesture they have shown the leadership and compassion that is the hallmark of excellent corporate citizens.

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of the businesses involved in this generous donation.

I also want to thank everyone at the Salvation Army for the dedication to the community they exhibit all year round, and especially when the temperatures dip.

It’s wonderful when corporations join together for the greater good of communities.

Today’s contribution builds on my government’s two hundred thousand dollar donation last week to the Salvation Army’s Good Neighbour Program.

Whether it’s through corporation donations, through our HST rebate program, aid from the Department of Community Services or assistance from community organizations like the Salvation Army, it’s all about helping people get through this extraordinary winter.

By working together and caring for our fellow Nova Scotians, we are helping to take the bite out of winter for those who need it most.

Thank you.