Fueling Lifesaving Missions: Inter Pipeline’s Support for Air Ambulance Programs
In the vast and often remote landscapes of Alberta and Saskatchewan, timely medical intervention can mean the difference between life and death. Air ambulance services play a crucial role in bridging the gap, providing rapid emergency response and ensuring the safety of residents in hard-to-reach areas. This year, Inter Pipeline is proud to announce a total commitment of $675,000 over the next three years to three vital air ambulance services (HALO, HERO and STARS), enhancing their ability to deliver critical care and save lives across the prairies in the communities that are the lifeblood of our people and our business.
“At Inter Pipeline, we’re proud to expand our support for air ambulance programs like HALO, HERO, and STARS. These vital services provide life-saving care across Alberta and Saskatchewan—regions where we operate and where many of our employees and their families live. Supporting these programs reflects our deep commitment to safety and to the well-being of the communities we call home.”Kyle DeGruchy, Senior Vice President, Transportation
Learn more about HALO, HERO and STARS
HALO Air Ambulance
Established in 2007, HALO Air Ambulance is Southern Alberta’s only dedicated helicopter emergency medical service program. Operating from Medicine Hat, Alberta, HALO provides rapid medical response and transport for critically ill or injured patients in remote and inaccessible areas, including parts of Southwest Saskatchewan. Since 2018, HALO has received over 400 emergency calls.
“In a medical emergency, minutes can make the difference between life and death. These helicopters are equipped with advanced medical services, equipment and technology to enable critical care during transport,” says Jason Locke, Manager, Pipeline Field Operations and member of IPL’s Brooks Community Investment Committee.
Local HERO Foundation
The Local HERO (Helicopter Emergency Response Organization) Foundation provides 24/7 emergency helicopter services to residents of Northern Alberta, ensuring rapid medical response and transport at no cost to patients. Established in 2013, the foundation has conducted over 500 medevac missions, utilizing advanced night vision technology to operate in challenging conditions. IPL’s support will be allocated to supporting the Municipality of Wood Buffalo, including many Indigenous communities.
“Our employees play a key role in guiding our sponsorships, with local community investment committees deciding where our funds go. That’s why supporting our local air ambulance organization is especially meaningful—it’s a cause our employees deeply value,” says Deanna Brophy, Administrative Assistant, Offgas and member of IPL’s Fort McMurray Community Investment Committee.
STARS
STARS is a non-profit air ambulance organization that provides emergency medical transportation across Western Canada. Founded in 1985, STARS operates a fleet of helicopters equipped with advanced medical technology and highly trained crews to deliver critical care to patients in remote and rural areas. IPL’s support of STARS will be put towards highly needed equipment including aviation tools, night vision goggles, GPS data books and fuel.
“STARS plays a critical role in providing life-saving care to patients in remote and rural areas. Our support helps ensure they have the tools and equipment needed to continue their vital work across Alberta and Saskatchewan,” says Curtis Bahm, Supervisor, Pipeline Field Operations and member of IPL’s Kindersley Community Investment Committee.
Our Stories
Related Inter Pipeline Stories
Community Initiatives
At Inter Pipeline, we support programs and initiatives whose goals include building a self-sustaining legacy in the community.
Video Gallery
Watch our community initiative videos to learn more about our impact in the communities where we live and work.
