TORONTO, May 20, 2011 /CNW/ - Scotiabank today confirmed its support for the Slave Lake community includes loan deferrals for customers devastated by extensive forest fires in Alberta.

"Scotiabank continues to monitor the grave situation in Slave Lake and the Bank is pursuing opportunties to assist victims of the fire," said George Marlatte, Scotiabank Senior Vice-President, Prairie Region. "Our employees stand ready to work individually with affected customers.

"Flexibility on loan, credit card and mortgage payments is available for our personal and small business customers who have lost their homes, their employment and their community," added Mr. Marlatte. "These solutions may include periods of extended payment deferral, up to 12 months, if necessary."

Scotiabank has operated in the Slave Lake community since 1969. Earlier this week, Scotiabank contributed $25,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to support relief efforts in Slave Lake. The Bank has also opened branches across the country to receive donations toward the Red Cross campaign.

Scotiabank's branch in Slave Lake remains closed. The Bank is looking at alternate accommodation until a permanent solution may be found. In the meantime, branches in nearby Athabasca and Westlock have extended their hours and are ready to serve customers from the Slave Lake area. Scotiabank's customer contact centre is available 24 hours a day to assist at 1-800-472-6842.

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad, through our global philanthropic program, Scotiabank Bright Future.  Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for our charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $44 million annually to community causes around the world over each of the last five years. Visit us at www.scotiabank.com.