The event will take place March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, where thousands of drivers, carriers, and industry professionals gather each year for one of trucking’s largest annual events.

A Night That Brings the Industry Together

The Silent Auction will be held during the MATS Opening Night Reception. The event brings together attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders for an evening of networking, food, and entertainment as the show officially gets underway.

Auction items are donated by industry partners, and attendees can place bids throughout the reception. All proceeds from the auction go directly toward supporting SCF and its work assisting truck drivers and their families during times of illness or injury.

“Last year’s Silent Auction was an incredible example of what happens when our industry comes together for drivers in need,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “The generosity we saw — from donated items to competitive bidding — directly translated into meaningful support for truckers and their families. We’re excited to bring that same energy back to MATS this year.”

According to SCF, last year’s auction raised more than $13,500 for the nonprofit, with participation from donors, bidders, and volunteers across the trucking industry.

Why the Fund Matters to Drivers

For many professional drivers, especially owner-operators, time away from the road due to medical issues can quickly create financial strain. The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides short-term assistance for Class A over-the-road drivers who have been forced out of work because of illness or injury within the last 365 days.

The organization also offers health and wellness initiatives aimed at helping drivers prevent long-term health problems and stay on the road.

“Owner-operators and professional drivers are the backbone of our nation’s supply chain, but they often don’t have a safety net when unexpected health issues arise,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at OOIDA. “The Silent Auction at MATS is a powerful reminder that this industry stands behind its drivers. Every bid placed, and every item donated, helps ensure that professional drivers have somewhere to turn when illness or injury takes them off the road.”

Opening Night Reception Sponsor

This year’s Opening Night Reception is sponsored by Triumph, a company focused on modernizing and simplifying freight transactions through financial and technology services designed for the trucking industry.

A Major Gathering for the Trucking Industry

Now in its more than 50-year history, the Mid-America Trucking Show continues to be the largest annual gathering in trucking. Each year, the event draws thousands of drivers, fleet representatives, manufacturers, and service providers from across North America.

The Silent Auction remains one of the show’s community-focused events, giving the industry a way to support drivers facing difficult circumstances.

SCF encourages MATS exhibitors and industry partners to donate items for the auction and invites attendees to participate in bidding during the Opening Night Reception.

More information about the Silent Auction and how to donate items can be found here. Drivers or industry partners interested in supporting the organization can also contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at diane@truckersfund.org.

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The organization is offering free cervical cancer screening kits to female over-the-road drivers nationwide, allowing them to complete the process privately and on their own schedule.

“Access to preventative care can be incredibly challenging for women who spend weeks at a time on the road,” said Lindsey Bryan, health & wellness manager at SCF. “By offering free, discreet, at-home cervical cancer screening kits, we’re removing barriers and meeting female drivers where they are. Early detection saves lives, and we want every woman in trucking to have access to that peace of mind.”

How the Screening Program Works

The cervical cancer kits expand SCF’s existing lineup of preventative screenings for professional drivers. The nonprofit already provides at-home and on-the-road prostate and colon or colorectal cancer screening kits.

Female OTR drivers can request a cervical cancer kit directly through SCF’s website by selecting the Cervical Cancer Screening option. Once submitted, the information goes straight to a St. Christopher Health and Wellness Case Manager. That case manager completes the registration and arranges shipment of the kit to the driver’s preferred location, whether that is a home address, carrier terminal, or P.O. Box.

Drivers complete the screening in private and return it using a pre-addressed, stamped envelope. Results are delivered within seven to ten days. If a test returns positive, the driver is offered a free Telehealth appointment for follow-up consultation.

SCF emphasized the importance of early action, stating, “Cervical cancer is highly preventable and treatable when detected early.”

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 14,000 new cases of invasive cervical cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States. When caught early, the five-year survival rate is approximately 91 percent. That rate drops significantly if the disease spreads, making regular screening a critical safeguard.

A Growing Population on the Road

Health access matters even more as the number of women in long-haul trucking continues to grow. The Women In Trucking Association has reported that women now represent approximately 9.5 percent of professional OTR drivers. With more than 2.2 million heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver jobs reported in 2024 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, that percentage translates to more than 200,000 female OTR drivers currently operating nationwide.

“Women in trucking play a vital role in keeping our supply chain moving,” said Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of Women In Trucking Association. “Programs like this demonstrate a true commitment to supporting women drivers beyond the cab. Providing free cervical cancer screenings helps ensure women have access to preventative care no matter where the road takes them.”

Beyond Emergency Relief

SCF remains the only nationwide nonprofit providing short-term financial assistance to Class A OTR drivers who have experienced an illness or injury within the last 365 days that forced them out of work. Alongside financial relief, the organization also offers multiple free health and wellness programs aimed at keeping drivers healthy and on the job.

Those programs include nicotine cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, at-home cancer screenings, and vaccine vouchers.

Female OTR drivers who want to request a cervical cancer screening kit or learn more about other available screenings can do so through the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund website.

For an industry that depends on long hours and long miles, initiatives like this bring preventative care closer to the people who keep freight moving every day.

Source: The Trucker

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The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund announced the milestone donation from TravelCenters of America, noting that the total represents the biggest one-year contribution generated by the event since the partnership began in 2017.

A milestone year for a long-standing partnership

The annual charity golf tournament has become a key source of support for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund over the past several years. Since the partnership launched, the event has produced steadily growing contributions, culminating in this record-breaking total.

“This milestone contribution demonstrates the power of sustained corporate support and the meaningful impact it can have on drivers and their families when they need it most,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “TravelCenters of America has been an incredible partner to the St. Christopher Fund for nearly a decade.”

SCF said the most recent tournament marks an important moment in the partnership and highlights increasing industry engagement around driver well-being and support.

Direct support for drivers facing hardship

According to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, proceeds from the tournament go directly toward providing financial assistance to professional drivers who are unable to work due to illness or injury.

“The record-breaking total reflects TA’s long-standing commitment to supporting professional drivers and their families during times of illness or injury,” SCF said. “Proceeds from the tournament directly benefit SCF’s mission to provide financial assistance to drivers facing hardship.”

Industry leaders say contributions of this size help ensure that assistance remains available to drivers when unexpected medical events or injuries disrupt their ability to earn a living.

TravelCenters of America on supporting drivers

TravelCenters of America leadership emphasized that driver support remains a core priority for the company, both through its travel center network and through charitable efforts like the annual golf tournament.

“Professional drivers keep this country moving, and supporting their well-being is a responsibility we take seriously,” said Jason Nordin, CEO, TA. “Our annual golf tournament is one way we can rally our vendor partners, our team members, and our industry around the drivers who need us most. We’re proud to stand with the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund and to help strengthen the safety net for the [people] who spend their lives on the road.”

TA said the tournament brings together vendors, partners, and employees with a shared goal of supporting drivers and their families during difficult times.

The role of the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund

The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides short-term financial assistance to Class A over-the-road drivers who have been taken out of work due to illness or injury within the past 365 days.

“The SCF is the only nationwide nonprofit that provides short-term relief to Class A OTR drivers suffering from an illness or injury that took them out of work within the last 365 days,” SCF said.

In addition to direct financial aid, the organization also offers several free prevention-focused health and wellness programs designed to help drivers stay healthy and remain on the road. Those programs include nicotine cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, at-home cancer screenings, and vaccine vouchers.

Looking ahead

SCF leaders said record-setting contributions like this one allow the organization to continue expanding its assistance and prevention programs as demand remains steady across the trucking community.

Drivers, carriers, and industry partners interested in supporting the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund can make donations or inquire about sponsorship opportunities by contacting Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at diane@truckersfund.org.

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“We are honored to team up with Wreaths Across America,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “This partnership gives our community in the trucking industry a meaningful way to participate in a time-honored tradition of remembrance and gratitude for our veterans.”

Through this partnership, SCF is helping highlight WAA’s mission of Remembering the Fallen, Honoring Those Who Serve, and Teaching the Next Generation the Value of Freedom. Drivers, carriers, trucking industry partners, family, and friends are encouraged to visit the SCF landing page on the WAA site. From there, supporters can select “Sponsor Wreaths,” choose a location, and complete a sponsorship to place a wreath at a veteran’s gravesite.

Shared Values Between Truckers and the Military

The trucking industry has a deep connection with the military. Many professional drivers are veterans themselves, continuing to serve the nation by keeping the economy moving. Both communities embrace values such as commitment, resilience, and sacrifice, making this partnership a natural way to honor these ideals.

“By supporting Wreaths Across America, the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund and our partners are helping ensure that every veteran’s grave is recognized with a wreath, symbolizing the gratitude of a nation that will never forget their service,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA).

How Truckers Can Get Involved

“The St. Christopher Fund encourages every individual and organization across the trucking and logistics sector to participate,” SCF said. “Whether sponsoring a wreath, volunteering on-site at the ceremony, or spreading the word among colleagues and loved ones, your involvement helps amplify the message of remembrance.”

Beyond honoring veterans, SCF supports the trucking community through nationwide short-term relief programs for Class A OTR drivers affected by illness or injury in the past year. The nonprofit also provides free preventive health and wellness initiatives, including tobacco cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, at-home cancer screenings, and vaccine vouchers, all aimed at keeping drivers on the road safely.

For those interested in donating or sponsoring the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, via email at diane@truckersfund.org.

Source: The Trucker

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The survey, conducted in partnership with SCF, shows that the public still has little understanding of the challenges professional drivers face, especially when it comes to health, income loss, and time away from home.

What the Survey Found

The results point to some serious concerns that hit close to home for anyone who makes a living on the road, whether that is a long-haul trucker or someone running daily delivery routes.

• Income loss: 37 percent of Americans believe truckers lose between $10,000 and $24,999 in income if illness or injury forces them off the road for just one month.
  • Lack of paid sick time: 43 percent of people surveyed did not realize that most independent drivers do not get paid sick leave.
  • Health risks: Nearly 40 percent of drivers face major metabolic or cardiovascular health concerns, including diabetes and heart disease.
  • Family impact: 39 percent of Americans know a truck driver who spends four or more days away from home at a time, with most only getting one to six days off between trips.

Those numbers show how vulnerable drivers can be when unexpected health issues hit.

The Human Side of the Job

“With 72 percent of the U.S. supply chain dependent on trucks, driver health and financial stability directly impact logistics resilience,” said Courtney Niemann, Executive Director of SCF. “Every mile, every delivery, and every long night on the road, America’s truck drivers go above and beyond to keep our country running. At SCF, we are committed to stepping in when illness or injury forces a driver off the road so families don’t fall through the cracks.”

That mission goes beyond long-haul trucking. For many local and last-mile delivery drivers, the same problems apply: no guaranteed sick pay, tight schedules, and limited access to affordable healthcare.

Support When Drivers Need It Most

The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund helps drivers and their families when unexpected medical or financial emergencies happen. The group offers direct financial aid along with free health and wellness programs to help drivers recover and get back to work safely.

Some of their recent initiatives include preventive health screenings, smoking cessation support, and chronic disease management programs designed for the realities of life on the road, such as long hours, limited healthy food options, and constant pressure to meet delivery deadlines.

Why This Matters to Last Mile Drivers

Even if your routes are local, the story is familiar. A few missed shifts because of illness can mean the difference between catching up and falling behind on bills. And when benefits are limited or nonexistent, drivers often face hard choices between rest and work.

This new survey underscores the importance of taking care of your health and knowing what resources exist to help when things go wrong. For drivers who depend on every stop and every delivery, support programs like SCF can make all the difference.

Source: Truckers News

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Turning Appreciation into Action

Earlier this year at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), Shell Rotella invited attendees to record messages of gratitude in its “Thank-a-Trucker” studio. For each message shared, both Shell Rotella and Love’s pledged $20 to SCF — an organization dedicated to helping truckers facing unexpected financial or medical challenges.

In total, 72 heartfelt recordings were made, adding up to a combined $2,880 donation to SCF. Shell emphasized the power of turning appreciation into action: “Seventy-two voices of gratitude echoed through MATS, each one a heartfelt ‘thank you’ that turned words into action. In total, these messages generated a $2,880 donation made in honor of the hardworking people who keep the country moving.”

Spotlighting the People Behind the Wheel

The donation is being presented this week during NTDAW, along with a virtual check presentation video rolling out on social media. The video will feature thank-you messages from Shell Rotella and Love’s representatives, paired with the unveiling of the donation check, creating a shareable way to recognize truck drivers nationwide.

Julie Wright, North American brand manager for Shell Rotella, underscored the importance of the effort: “Truckers are the unsung heroes of the highway, and their sacrifices and commitment deserve our deepest gratitude. We are honored to shine a spotlight through this shared tribute to every mile, every sacrifice, and every story worth celebrating through our continuing support of SCF.”

A Gift That Makes an Impact

For drivers, this support can make a real difference. Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy at SCF, explained: “Every donation, every thank-you message, makes a difference. Shell Rotella and Love’s Travel Stops continue to show up for drivers in a meaningful way, and this gift will help us continue our mission to support truckers in need.”

Amplifying Voices Across the Industry

To reach even more drivers, Shell Rotella partnered with trucking influencers Clarissa Rankin (@iamclarissarankin) and Tarik Al-Amin II (@tarik_alaminii). Their platforms helped amplify the project, encouraging drivers to share personal experiences and stories of gratitude that reflect the strength and heart of the trucking community.

Courtney Franklin, manager of community relations at Love’s Travel Stops, noted how the partnership reflects shared values: “It’s an honor to align with Shell Rotella in sharing a sincere thank you to the people who drive the transportation industry and economy. This partnership reflects our shared respect for drivers and our commitment to their health and success.”

Wrapping Up NTDAW with Thanks

As NTDAW comes to a close on Sept. 20, the donation and tribute video serve as reminders that appreciation for drivers shouldn’t stop once the week ends. With millions of miles traveled and countless sacrifices made, this initiative highlights the dedication of professional truckers and the importance of recognizing their role in keeping America moving.

To see the “Thank-a-Trucker” tribute video and virtual donation presentation, visit Shell Rotella’s official pages on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Source: Shell

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Submit Your Rig for the Virtual Award

Truck drivers unable to make it to Atlanta can still showcase their trucks for a chance to win this special honor. Submit your entry online at super-rigs.mymilesmatter.com by 4 p.m. Central Time on May 15.

Once entries are in, voting opens to the public at the same website starting at 8 a.m. Central Time on May 16. Voters have until 4 p.m. Central Time on May 30 to make their voices heard.

Supporting a Worthy Cause

Every vote cast for the People’s Choice Award carries more than bragging rights. For each ballot, $1 will be donated to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, a non-profit organization based in Knoxville, Tennessee. Their mission? Helping professional drivers in times of need. Your vote helps support this crucial effort while celebrating truckers’ hard work and creativity.

The People’s Choice Award winner will be revealed during the prestigious SuperRigs awards ceremony in Atlanta.

Last Year’s Winner

Jeff Hoke, hailing from Dixon, Iowa, claimed last year’s People’s Choice Award with his stunning 2023 Peterbilt 389. Will your truck take the crown this year?

Highlights of SuperRigs 2025

Scheduled from May 29-31 at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, SuperRigs 2025 promises more than $25,000 in cash and prizes for participants. Winners from 20 categories will be selected, and 12 exceptional drivers will secure their place in the highly anticipated 2026 SuperRigs calendar.

Participating in this renowned event means more than just awards. Here’s what you can expect at SuperRigs 2025:

• Truck Contests judged by a panel including Land Line Managing Editor Jami Jones and OOIDA Director of Security Operations Doug Morris.
• Live Entertainment and music to keep the energy high.
• A Fireworks Display that will light up the night sky.
• Parades and Family-Friendly Activities perfect for attendees of all ages.

Drivers who register early will receive reserved parking spots and the opportunity to choose their preferred judging times. Registration is officially open, so don’t wait!

Be Part of the Action

Whether you’re submitting your truck for the virtual People’s Choice Award, showcasing your rig in person, or attending to experience the festivities, there’s something for everyone at SuperRigs 2025. Find more information and register now at super-rigs.mymilesmatter.com.

Don’t Miss Out

Celebrate trucking excellence, connect with a vibrant community, and help make an impact with your votes. Get ready for SuperRigs 2025 and make your mark in the world of trucking.

Source: Land Line
Image Source: The Trucker

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Participate From Anywhere

Can’t make it to Atlanta? No problem. This beloved category invites truckers from across North America to showcase their prized rigs online and make their mark. Drivers can submit photos of their trucks until May 15 at 4:00 p.m. CT through the official submission portal at super-rigs.mymilesmatter.com. Whether you’re using your smartphone, tablet, or computer, entering is quick and easy.

How to Vote

Voting kicks off on May 16 at 8:00 a.m. CT and runs through May 30 at 4:00 p.m. CT. Fans, friends, and family can all participate by voting for their favorite truck. What’s more, each vote doubles as a good deed. For every vote cast, $1 will be donated to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, an organization dedicated to supporting truck drivers in times of need.

The winner will be revealed during the official SuperRigs awards ceremony, joining the ranks of last year’s winner Jeff Hooker, who wowed everyone with his 2023 Peterbilt 389, aptly named ‘Worth the Wait.’

Make Your Voice Count

Want to showcase your rig or support your favorite truck? Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action. Head to mymilesmatter.ca/superrigs/peopleschoice now to submit your entry or cast your vote.

Source: The Trucker

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The Knoxville-based nonprofit organization, St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, has reported offering over $5 million in aid to more than 4,000 professional drivers since its inception. All proceeds from the recent auction will directly contribute to extending this impactful mission.

Additionally, contributions were raised during Shell Rotella’s special “Thank-A-Trucker” recording studio event at MATS, with further support from Love’s Travel Stops, which matched these donations dollar-for-dollar.

“I want to extend a truckload of gratitude to the generous donors and dedicated volunteers who made our silent auction and booth activities such a success,” said Norita Taylor, president of the St. Christopher Fund and director of public relations for OOIDA. “Your support, along with the participation of the auction winners, helped us raise the funds that will continue to fuel our mission. Thank you for being a part of something truly special.”

Auction Contributors

Bidders at MATS had the unique opportunity to bid on items generously provided by several companies and individuals. Contributions came from the following donors:

• 3 Fat Truckers

• 4 State Trucks

• Aeroserve Technologies Ltd.

• Bennett Family of Companies

• Brenny Transportation Inc.

• C.H. Robinson

• CAT Scale

• DAT Freight & Analytics

• DC Power Solutions

• Drill Sergeant Don Talley

• EAB Strategies, LLC

• Eckert & Associates, P.A.

• Gelco Products Inc.

• Hot Shot’s Secret

• Hotels4Truckers

• Howes Products

• Littrell Truck & Tractor

• Mid-America Trucking Show

• Movin’ Out Magazine

• And Mrs. Ron Schoonover

• Oasis Scientific Inc.

• OOIDA

• Permatex

• ProMiles Software Development Corporation

• Pypes Performance Exhaust

• Quick Pressure

• Sapp Bros.

• SeaFoam

• Shore Corporation

• Sir Savills Ideal Rubs

• Temper Axle Products Corporation

• Ten Four Truck Insurance

• Travel Centers of America

• Truck Parking Club

• Trucker Tax Tools

• Uniden America Corporation

• Vibratech TVD

• WeatherTech

Missed the Event? Here’s Your Chance!

If you couldn’t make it to MATS, you can still support the cause. The online auction closes tonight, April 21, and every bid helps assist drivers in need.

Place your bid now and make an impact.

Every dollar raised helps a driver facing tough times. Let’s keep showing up for those who always show up for us.

Source: Land Line

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The MATS Pro Talks Education Series is back, offering a packed schedule of sessions designed to help drivers and trucking professionals stay ahead in the industry. From business strategies to industry insights, these sessions provide valuable knowledge for anyone looking to sharpen their skills.

For those who love custom trucks, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship will showcase some of the most impressive rigs on the road. Competing trucks will be on display in Lot N, giving attendees a chance to see some of the best builds in the business up close. The MATS Big Rig Build-Off also returns, featuring five custom truck builders going head-to-head.

Drivers bringing their rigs to MATS can take advantage of the Truck Parking Community at 1032 Phillips Lane, right across from the main entrance. A free shuttle runs between the lot and the Expo Center during show hours. The lot isn’t just for parking—it’s a gathering spot with free coffee and espresso from Mudflap on Thursday and Friday (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Before Friday night’s concert with Colt Ford and Tony Justice, Fistful of Tacos will be serving free tacos and nachos to the first 400 guests from 5:30-7 p.m.

Many exhibitors will also have special events, giveaways, and new products on display. Shell Rotella’s booth will feature an interactive experience with trucking personalities like the Boston Trucker, Clarissa Rankin, and Tarik Al-Amin II. Attendees can record a message in the Shell Rotella Recording Studio to thank a trucker or share their own story, with donations going to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.

The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund will also hold a silent auction and 50/50 raffle at the MATS Opening Reception on Thursday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. A $1 donation at the SCF booth will let attendees spin the wheel for a chance to win prizes.

Other highlights include:

• Heatso offering a limited-time 10% discount on its Fresco 9000 MaXX electric auxiliary air-conditioning unit.
• Mother Trucker Yoga is introducing new wellness programs for CDL schools and fleets, alongside live demos and wellness products.
• Right Weigh showcasing its latest Bluetooth-enabled onboard load scales for better load management.
• RealTruck RoadWorks debuting new HALO GLOW LEDs and accessories for the Peterbilt 589.

MATS is always a great place to connect with fellow truckers, industry experts, and exhibitors. TDUSA President Lori Furnell will also be in attendance. Be sure to say hi if you run into her!

Source: Overdrive

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