Truck drivers across the country are showing their support for U.S. military members and veterans as the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) launches its 19th annual Truckers for Troops campaign. Running November 10 through 16, the week-long effort coincides with Veterans Day and brings a spotlight to the ways truckers can make a difference.
Helping Those Who Serve
Truckers have a long history of giving back, and Truckers for Troops continues that tradition. OOIDA explains, “The fundraising effort has been an OOIDA tradition since 2007, originally dedicated to sending care packages to service personnel stationed in combat zones. Truckers for Troops has also helped a variety of veteran facilities, including those assisting or housing wounded, disabled, or homeless service members.”
The campaign focuses on sending care packages to troops overseas and providing assistance to veteran support facilities across the country.
How Drivers Can Participate
Truck drivers can get involved by joining or renewing their OOIDA membership for one year at $35. Ten percent of this fee goes directly toward care packages, and OOIDA matches that contribution dollar for dollar.
Participation options include:
- By Phone: Call 816-229-5791 during business hours, mention Truckers for Troops, and you will be connected to Membership.
- Online: Click “Become a Member” on the OOIDA website to join or renew after hours.
- Mail: Indicate “Dues & Donation” or “Donation Only” on your payment and specify “TROOPS.” Send donation-only checks to the OOIDA Foundation.
Campaign Impact Over the Years
Truckers have made a lasting difference. OOIDA reports, “Over the past 18 years, OOIDA has raised more than 800,000 dollars and sent more than 3,288 care packages, serving more than 39,400 members of the military. The organization has also sent aid packages to 65 different facilities caring for wounded, disabled, and homeless veterans, including the Veterans Community Project. The VCP began in Kansas City and plans to have locations in every state. Currently, they have locations in Sioux Falls, S.D., Longmont, Co., St. Louis, Mo., and anticipate expanding to Oklahoma City, Okla., Milwaukee, Wis., and Glendale, Ariz.”
Veterans Community Project Spotlight
Truckers supporting this campaign are also helping the Veterans Community Project, which provides veterans transitioning out of homelessness with tiny homes and access to community centers. OOIDA says, “This invaluable project transitions veterans from homelessness to permanent housing. Veterans are provided with ‘tiny homes’ filled with amenities. All veterans can also access a community center for other types of support and services. With several locations and plans for national expansion, the project aims to touch lives in every state.”
Sending Care Packages
Drivers with a family member or friend serving in the U.S. military can request a care package by sending the name and complete mailing address to troops@ooida.com. Include the projected stateside return date.
Letters and cards showing appreciation can be mailed to:
Attention: Truckers for Troops
P.O. Box 1000
Grain Valley, MO 64029
OOIDA notes, “Towns or school names can be included, but please do not include last names or other personal information. No particular theme, and not necessarily holidays or Christmas.”
For more information or to get involved, visit the Truckers for Troops website.
Source: The Trucker
Image: OOIDA
