Anticipating a greater than normal number of requests, the Truckers Christmas Group has opened its 13th annual holiday fundraising campaign.
A statement from the organization said its board was viewing 2020 with concern even before the beginning of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Last year saw the bankruptcies of a record number of trucking companies, leaving many drivers unemployed.
“During the first half of 2020, we were already fielding inquiries as to ways we could help drivers and their families as a result of COVID-19,” said Mark Abraham, president of TCGO. “We foresee an increased need for both volunteers and donations to be able to handle the anticipated demand. The impact of COVID-19 after a challenging 2019, is causing increasing concerns in the trucking industry. We are closely watching the situation. The donation of goods and funds will help us make sure every driver in our trucking family can support their families during the holiday season.”
Created in 2008, TCGO helps drivers and their families during the holiday season by raising funds requested through aid applications and nominations. During the 2018 Christmas season, the organization delivered $8,000 to 16 families. In 2019 they assisted 29 families with $500 each. Since its inception, TCGO has distributed more than $105,000 and helped 183 trucking families ease the financial burdens associated with the holidays.
Nominations will open on the TCGO website Nov. 1 and close on Dec. 5. Families receiving funding are notified beginning Dec. 14.
Along with monetary donations made on the TCGO website, supporters can purchase items donated to the TCGO online Christmas store. While some things are in stock now, volunteers are working to increase inventory by Nov. 1, when the store opens. Businesses and individuals generously provide items sold in The TCGO Christmas Store, and new items will be listed regularly. People are encouraged to visit TCGO’s website often to see what’s new.
To nominate a driver and their family, visit https://truckerschristmasgroup.org. All nominations are anonymous and open to professional CDL drivers living in the U.S. and Canada.
Sponsors of TCGO include Kevin and Leesa Rutherford, OOIDA, OBAC, RedEye Radio, Canada Calling, Landline Now, Truth about Trucking, America’s Trucking Network, Marcia Campbell, Marcia Campbell Productions, Overdrive Online, Canadian Trucking Magazine DOTAuthority.com. Contributing products to the TCGO online tore include Let’s Truck, Pittsburgh Power, OPS1, Freedom Air Filters, BrakeSafe, Road Pro Family of Brands, Paul Marhoeffer Music, Bill Weaver Music, Ken Freeman Music, The Stone Creek Four, Volvo Trucks, and Mack Trucks.