Today is the day America takes time to honor those who have served the cause of freedom by being part of this country's military.
Veterans of all branches of the military have found careers in the trucking industry. In fact, federal statistics show veterans make up 10% of trucking's employees.
One organization this week is aiding veterans and those who are still serving.
Care packages for service membersOOIDA
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 veterans facilities, including those assisting or housing wounded, disabled or homeless service members.
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, South Dakota, Longmont, Colorado, St. Louis, and anticipate expanding to Oklahoma City, Milwaukee, and Glendale, Arizona.
VCP 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.
During the one-week campaign period, truckers can join OOIDA or renew their membership for one year for $35, with 10% of that money going toward care packages. OOIDA matches the 10% dollar for dollar.
During business hours, call 816-229-5791, mention Truckers for Troops, and get transferred to OOIDA's Membership Department.
Or, members can visit www.OOIDA.com and select "Become a Member" to join or renew.
If OOIDA members are mailing in payments, indicate “Dues & Donation” or “Donation only” and specify “TROOPS” on your payment. Direct donation-only checks to the OOIDA Foundation.
Anyone who has a family member or friend serving with the U.S. military, and who would like for them to get a care package, can send the name and complete address to troops@ooida.com. Be sure to include projected stateside return date.
Cards and letters of appreciation may be sent to Truckers for Troops, P.O. Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO 64029. Towns or school names can be included, but please do not include last names or other personal information. Letters should have no particular theme, and not necessarily reference Christmas or other holidays..
