Trucking offers aid to areas devastated by Hurricane Ian  

After Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc on parts of Florida and the southeast last week, trucking organizations are lending a hand to help with the clean-up and recovery efforts.  

Multiple groups are working quickly to provide much-needed supplies and resources to those affected by the storm, The Trucker reported. One such organization is the Georgia Motor Trucking Association (GMTA), which is working in tandem with the Convoy of Care to accept donations and monetary contributions. 

“For six years, when crisis strikes, GMTA members and law enforcement have answered the call to donate and contribute to those in need through the Convoy of Care,” a news release stated. “The impacts of Hurricane Ian are vast, and the ask is big.” 

Companies that wish to participate in the Convoy of Care can visit Caring for Others, Inc. or email [email protected]. 

Another nonprofit spearheading relief efforts is God’s Pit Crew, known for their Blessing Buckets filled with essential supplies. The group is seeking donations of safety glasses, heavy-duty extension cords, gas cans, and tarps. You can also sponsor a Blessing Bucket for $35 or donate to the disaster response fund by visiting their website. 

In Kentucky, Yellow Freight is loading up trucks with supplies to send south to Ft. Myers later this week. 

“We’re looking just for a huge outreach from the community,” Jeff Ireland, terminal manager at Yellow Freight told WKYT. “Anything from toiletries to personal hygiene products. Pillows, blankets, and non-perishable food. Anything you would normally see donated in a natural disaster. We’re really hoping for a good turnout for distribution.” 

Lee County, Florida sheriff Carmine Marceno addressed the media on Monday, expressing gratitude to those who have offered support in their time of need. “What a blessing is that, for people to come from all over when that bell rings, to come help us in Lee County. I can’t say thank you enough again to the people that have been out there, the public outreach and continuous people that want to help,” Marceno said. 

Time and time again, the trucking industry has displayed just how willing it is to step in during the moments that count.