CODE: Search- MCSC Teams With Apache to Initiate New Ground Search Protocol for Missing Children

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - May 2, 2011) -The search for missing children in Canada just got 950 more boots on the ground. Apache Canada Ltd. has partnered with the Missing Children's Society of Canada (MCSC) to develop and launch "CODE: Search" – a nation-wide protocol that will see Apache manpower and resources in the field step up to assist MCSC ground searches for missing children.

"Their knowledge of local terrain and their ability to quickly supply search volunteers and ground resources will be invaluable to future searches," explained Hanan Chebib, Manager of Development with MCSC. "Apache is going above and beyond simply donating cash. They are also committing their resources and energy to MCSC in a very meaningful way. It's truly a win-win partnership."

"We are honoured to be a partner in CODE: Search. Apache Canada has recently seen an enhancement in land ownership; we want to play an integral role in assisting with searches happening in proximity to our operating areas" said John Hawkins, Manager of Environment, Health and Safety at Apache.

The unique partnership was officially announced today to mark the kick-off of MCSC's annual "Light the Way Home" campaign.

"Our searching families are faced with an unimaginable reality every single day," expressed Chebib. "Our Light the Way Home campaign shows our searching families that all of Canada stands with them in their hopeful search."

This year, MCSC's Light the Way Home campaign is reaching out to Canadians with some opportunities to personally connect with the continued search for missing children.

1. Light a Candle: Light a candle at 8:00pm on May 25^th – National Missing Children's Day - in remembrance of all missing children. This simple act is a touching way for you and your loved ones to personally connect with the hope we share with searching families everywhere.

2. Give Hope: Show your support for MCSC's searching families by sending a personal "Message of Hope". Your personal messages are collected and shared with MCSC's searching families as a show of support in their continued search. Submit your message online at www.LightTheWayHome.ca.

3. Take Action: Take a personal action to stop child abduction in your community by joining MCSC's "I STOP" movement. I STOP aims to engage Canadians in taking a personal action against abduction – with every action, no matter how small or large, combining to end child abduction in Canada. Visit www.mcsc.ca for ideas and inspiration.

"Apache's partnership in CODE: Search is a perfect example of what our I STOP movement is all about," explained Chebib. "Apache is making a large commitment, but even actions as simple as viewing our online directory of Missing Children, talking to your children about personal safety, or making an online donation can make an impact."

"Our I STOP movement calls on Canadians to connect with their own communities in a way that is meaningful to them, and join us in the search for our missing children."

Since 1986, MCSC has operated comprehensive hands-on investigative programs to assist police and searching families in the ongoing search for abducted and missing children. MCSC is the only non-profit organization in the country that conducts frontline investigations for missing children.

About the Missing Children Society of Canada

Since 1986, the Missing Children Society of Canada has been reuniting missing children with their searching families through professional investigations, public awareness and family support programs. MCSC's team of former police detectives and trained investigators work closely with law enforcement while conducting frontline, hands-on investigative and search activities.

About Apache Canada Ltd.

Based in Calgary, Apache Canada Ltd. is an oil and gas exploration and production company with interests in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. A subsidiary of Houston, Texas-based Apache Corporation, Apache Canada accounts for approximately 26 per cent of Apache Corporation's global estimated proven reserves. Strong acquisitions and dedicated employees have taken the company to new heights.