Fundraising Success at MATS 2026 for St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF) proudly announces that it raised over $10,000 during the 2026 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS). This achievement was made possible through the active involvement of industry volunteers during the annual Silent Auction and generous contributions collected at their booth. Notably, professional driver Steve Jones donated his 50/50 winnings back to SCF.
“The support from the industry this year has been remarkable,” stated Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “The generosity displayed by auction donors, bidders, and everyone visiting our booth demonstrates how much the trucking community cares for its drivers. Each dollar contributed helps us provide essential assistance to truckers and their families during difficult times.”
The Role of MATS and SCF
MATS again gathered thousands of trucking professionals, exhibitors, and industry partners, all contributing to SCF’s mission to offer financial support and health resources to over-the-road drivers dealing with health challenges.
A key highlight of the fundraising was the annual Silent Auction, held during the MATS Opening Night Reception, sponsored by Triumph. The event showcased a variety of donated items, inspiring enthusiastic bidding and showcasing the trucking community’s commitment to supporting its drivers.
Direct Contributions and Corporate Support
Beyond the auction, SCF received donations directly from attendees and exhibitors at their booth throughout the three-day event. Contributions included a prize wheel donated by Konexial and Progressive Insurance, further enhancing the fundraising success. Various corporate partners and sponsors also made additional donations.
A Safety Net for Professional Drivers
“Professional drivers are vital to our economy; however, many lack a safety net for unexpected health issues,” explained Norita Taylor, SCF board president and OOIDA communications strategist. “This year’s success at MATS underscores what can be achieved when our industry comes together to support those who keep America moving. We also extend our gratitude to MATS organizers for their invaluable support.”
Partners and Sponsors Acknowledged
SCF would like to express appreciation for the following partners and sponsors who supported MATS 2026: AgroEcoPower, Alen Lund, Aeroserve Technologies, ArcBest, American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), and many others.
About the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund
The SCF is the only national nonprofit providing short-term assistance to Class A OTR drivers experiencing illness or injury that prevents them from working for up to 365 days. It also offers various free health and wellness programs aimed at helping OTR drivers, including nicotine cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, at-home cancer screenings, and vaccine vouchers.
How to Support SCF
For more information on how to support the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, please reach out to Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at [email protected].
