Toronto, ON -- Every time farm customers in various areas of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba purchase fuel or fertilizer from local Esso associates this farming season, they will be making a difference in their community.

Esso is kick-starting a new community-driven initiative called the Esso Farm Community Growth fund, developed with the assistance of local Esso associates in farming communities across Central and Western Canada. From now until November 30, 2004 Esso will donate up to a penny for each litre of delivered fuel or each tonne of fertilizer sold to 27 individual projects in 19 communities. Each community has the potential to receive up to $25,000.

"The goal of the Esso Farm Community Growth fund is to make a positive and lasting impact in the communities we serve," said Fred Gowland, Industrial Wholesale Offer Manager, Esso. "With this program, we are also able to recognize the quiet heroes of our small towns - our Esso associates who give of themselves both through their businesses and through their dedication to helping improve their community."

The Esso Farm Community Growth Fund will touch many areas of community life. Some initiatives include raising funds for: improvements to arenas and sports facilities, equipment for fire departments, childrens playgrounds and various health related services. In total, this program could donate up to $475,000 in rural farming communities. For an idea of the projects in your community, see the attached list.

Esso has been fuelling farm businesses in Canada for over 100 years and is committed to supporting programs in the communities it serves. In 2003, Esso, through the Imperial Oil Foundation, contributed almost $6.1 million in support to over 400 non-profit organizations in Canada. Visit the company's web site at www.esso.ca.

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