Coming Together Through the Wildfires

October 4, 2025 in Giving Back People
Explorer: Fall 2025

This summer, wildfires swept through northern Saskatchewan, forcing families to leave their homes and communities to rally together. It was a difficult time, with long days filled with uncertainty, smoke-filled skies, and the worry of not knowing what they’d return to. Yet through it all, one thing became clear: the strength of the north lies in its people and the way we come together when it matters most. 

As evacuees from Beauval, Jans Bay, La Plonge, Canoe Lake, Cole Bay, Canoe Narrows, Montreal Lake, Pinehouse, Patuanak, Pelican Narrows, Creighton and Weyakwin arrived in safe shelters, there were friendly faces, food, and comfort waiting for them. Local businesses and organizations stepped up in countless ways. Athabasca Basin Development (ABD) companies immediately answered the call for assistance. For example, Rise Air helped move evacuees to safety and stayed on the phone with emergency teams, coordinating flight schedules and resources. Arctic Beverages rolled up with pallets of water. Volunteers welcomed families, offering rides, supplies, and reassurance in the middle of the chaos. 

At the height of the fires, Gary Merasty, CEO of Peter Ballantyne Group of Companies, recognized the power in coming together and said, “Thousands of people are displaced and evacuated to various towns and cities. We want to thank the residents of these cities and towns for their hospitality and generosity of spirit. We want to thank all the volunteers stepping up to help.” 

ABD collaborated with local leaders and community organizations to provide support wherever possible. Partnering with 5 Buds, Points Athabasca, Points North, Rise Air, and Long Lake Insurance, we made donations to help evacuees from Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and assist families in La Ronge. Our partners and friends also joined in: ABS provided a $5,000 donation, Optek contributed $2,500 each to Peter Ballantyne and La Ronge, and Arctic Beverages gifted two pallets of water in addition to their ongoing support to the Red Cross in Manitoba. Flyer Electric also stepped forward with a $10,000 donation to the Red Cross. 

Altogether, more than $57,000 in direct support went to communities, not to mention the in-kind help, equipment, and manpower. Beyond the dollars, it was the teamwork, the care, and the willingness to jump in that really mattered. 

Ron Hyggen, CEO of Kitsaki Management, the Lac La Ronge Indian Band’s economic development arm, took the time to express that very sentiment and his gratitude with a thoughtful note that read, “Your generosity during this fire season meant more than words can say. You weren’t asked, yet you stepped up—and that act of kindness lifted spirits in a time of crisis. I shared your support with our Chief, Councillors, and emergency team, and everyone was deeply moved. Personally, after narrowly escaping the flames myself and helping with evacuations, I saw firsthand how vital this help was. Because of your gift, 44 evacuees had shelter, bedding, food, and even a few comforts that brought smiles in a hard time. For that, our community is truly grateful.” 

These wildfires challenged northerners but also reminded everyone of what makes this region so special. In tough times, the north doesn’t stand alone; everyone stands together. Thanks to the northern community spirit, families were cared for, communities found strength, and hope carried on even during the smokiest days. 

Geoff Gay, ABD’s CEO, said, “In moments like this, you see the true spirit of the north. Everyone came together, companies, leaders, neighbours, and it made a real difference for people who needed it most.” 

To everyone who donated, volunteered, or offered prayers and kindness to those in need: THANK YOU.