Northback helps feed students

There was a formal cheque presentation for the Northback Breakfast Program on March 4 at 9:30 a.m. at Livingstone School in Lundbreck. 

Northback CEO Mike Young spoke at the presentation, saying, “it’s a pleasure to join you today - as a supporter and donor for this invaluable initiative, the Northback Breakfast Program.”

The program, a collaboration between Northback and the LRSD Nutrition Program, originated from the compassionate drive of a local student, Raegan Lazzarotto. 

Recognizing the issue of child hunger, Lazzarotto, with the support of her mother Daina, employed at Northback, spearheaded the initiative, demonstrating remarkable passion and commitment to community welfare.

“This young lady saw that children were hungry and wanted to do something about it,” added Young.

The significance of a nutritious breakfast in a child’s life was emphasized during the event. By supporting the LRSD Nutrition Program, the community is not only providing a meal but investing in the future of its children. A nutritious breakfast serves as a catalyst for success, breaking the chains of hunger that may impede a child’s ability to excel academically and beyond.

“I was a nurse before I was in politics, and I volunteered with programs to feed individuals. This program will help so many of our students in this division,” said MLA Chelsae Petrovic, who was present at Livingstone School for the cheque presentation.

As a committed partner in the community, Northback, along with its parent company Hancock Prospecting Pty. Ltd., is dedicated to fostering economic growth, prosperity, and job creation in local communities, particularly in Alberta. This commitment extends beyond the breakfast program, with ongoing support for various community initiatives such as the Southwest Alberta Skateboard Society, CNP Quad Squad, Livingstone School, and scholarships for local First Nations and LRSD students.

“Many of our students face food insecurity at home,” said Richard Feller, Associate Superintendent of Divison’s Human and Learning Services, “Our Nutrition Program helps ensure students don’t have to be hungry and can focus on learning. This generous donation from Northback will positively contribute to our Core Value of wellness in our schools.”

Despite not having an approved project in recent years, Northback envisions even more opportunities with the Grassy Mountain Project. This project presents a chance to amplify social and economic benefits for local communities through resource development. 

The company plans to continue investing in community organizations and social initiatives, including the crucial nutrition program. Furthermore, they express the potential for future employment opportunities, encouraging those interested in skilled trades or careers in engineering, human resources, or geology to consider staying in southern Alberta and contributing to Northback’s mission of bringing economic prosperity and opportunities to the region.

“With the Grassy Mountain Project, we have an opportunity to further grow the social and economic benefits resource development provides to our local communities and continue to invest in community organizations and social initiatives, including this important nutrition program,” said Young.

The Northback Breakfast Program, born from a student’s initiative, stands as a beacon of community collaboration and commitment. It addresses the immediate need for nutrition and aligns with broader visions of responsible resource development and community welfare. 

Young added that they have done this without an approved project.

“Imagine the opportunities once the Grassy Mountain Project is up and running,” said Young.