This week has been overwhelmed with the 2020 presidential election, but I am pleased to interrupt that coverage with the good that the trucking industry continues to do – no matter what is happening in the world. Here are five good things that happened in trucking this week.
XPO last-mile crew donated furniture to One Heart for Women and Children
On Nov. 4, XPO Logistic’s last-mile crew in Orlando, Fla., donated much-needed furniture to One Heart for Women and Children.
According to the company’s Life at XPO Twitter account, “Not only did they pull off a seamless delivery, they also set up donation boxes throughout their facility to support the non-profit year-round! We couldn't be prouder.”
UPS celebrated Black Entrepreneurs Day with $25,000 grant
In honor of Black Entrepreneurs Day, UPS awarded $25,000 to a local mother and her daughters to help them grow their beauty and wellness business. Through the NAACP Powershift Grant, JAS Official can grow its skincare line of buttercreams, body polishes and bath soaks.
While this happened last week, it was too good not to share again. Congratulations, girls!
Truckers for Troops campaign to kick off Nov. 9
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association’s (OOIDA) annual Truckers for Troops care package campaign is scheduled for the week of Nov. 9-16, in honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
The fundraising campaign sends care packages to military personnel stationed in combat zones and helps a variety of veteran’s facilities in the U.S., including those assisting or housing wounded, disabled or homeless service members. This year, the group is also looking to assist veterans’ facilities with unmet needs.
Beginning this year, the program will also benefit the Veterans Community Project (VCP), which provides houses for homeless vets through a community of “tiny houses.” VCP also provides comprehensive services such as navigating the Veterans Administration and its benefits, identification services, mental and physical health referrals and financial counseling. Veterans can also receive hygiene kits and access to a food pantry, all free of charge.
During Truckers for Troops week, truckers can join OOIDA or renew their membership for $35, with 10% of that money going toward care packages. OOIDA matches the 10% dollar for dollar. Individual tax-deductible contributions to the Truckers for Troops fund are also welcome and can be paid to the OOIDA Foundation.
OOIDA is currently seeking addresses for sending packages and is also accepting personal cards or letters to include inside the packages. Anyone who has a family member or friend serving in a combat zone with the U.S. military, and who would like for them to get a care package, can send the name and complete address to [email protected] and be sure to include projected stateside return date.
Tennessee Trucking Association launches 2nd Annual Haulin’ for the Holidays Toy Drive
Haulin’ for the Holidays is a state-wide initiative by the Tennessee Trucking Association and its Young Professional Council in partnership with local charities to make holidays brighter for Tennessee children, teens and families.
Find your region in the links below and purchase toy via Amazon Wishlist. Simply have it shipped directly to the drop off location for no-contact delivery.
- Memphis: FedExFamilyHouse Memphis
- Knoxville: Toys for Tots Knoxville
- Nashville: YES Youth Encouragment Services Nashville
- Chattanooga: Chambliss Center Chattanooga
- Jackson: Hands Up Preschool Jackson
Illinois Trucking launches limited time online store for the holidays
Just in time for the holidays, the Illinois Trucking Association Store is back with some all new merchandise designs, clothes, hats and decals, some of which were showcase from Illinois Trucking’s #ThankATrucker campaign. The store is only open for a limited time and closes on Nov. 15.
