Fueling the Frontlines: How to Support the Heroes Behind the Wheel All Year Long

The trucking industry is the engine of the American economy. Every day, over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers haul goods across thousands of miles, ensuring shelves are stocked and supply chains stay intact. But the trucker lifestyle is demanding—marked by long hours, isolation, health risks, and financial uncertainty. Thankfully, several non-profit organizations are stepping up to support these essential workers. Here are six impactful nonprofits making a difference in the lives of truckers. 

1. Project 61
   Project 61 is named after a shocking statistic – the average life expectancy for an over-the-road truck driver, which is just 61 years of age. Project 61 is on a mission to extend the span and quality of the lives of truckers by offering free wellness tools and events tailored to the trucker lifestyle. Their free mobile app, Offshift, provides movement routines, nutrition tips and peer support along with industry-wide health challenges.  Project 61 is redefining health on the road, helping drivers live longer, healthier lives.
   
   
2. St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF)
   Founded in 2007, the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides financial assistance to over-the-road truck drivers who are unable to work due to illness or injury. Their mission is to help drivers and their families stay afloat during medical crises. SCF has distributed over $5.3 million in aid and helped more than 4,150 drivers nationwide through emergency aid for rent, utilities and insurance, free vaccines and at-home cancer screenings as well as their health programs like Rigs Without Cigs and Driving Down Diabetes.
   
   Trucker Charity is a grassroots organization that understands the real-world challenges of life on the road.
   
   
3. Meals for 18 Wheels
   
   Through a network of volunteers, Meals for 18 Wheels helps professional drivers get connected with locals who can deliver a hot, home-cooked meal to them. If a driver is struggling financially, they will also help stock food for them.  While not yet rated by Charity Navigator, Meals for 18 Wheels is praised for its responsiveness and its community-driven model.
   
   
4. Truckers Final Mile
   Truckers Final Mile focuses on reuniting drivers with their families during times of tragedy. Whether a driver is hospitalized far from home or has passed away, this nonprofit ensures families are supported. They assist with repatriation of deceased drivers or emergency travel for family members, mobility aid and grief counseling. With over 750 families helped, Truckers Final Mile provides dignity and compassion when it’s needed most.
   
   
5. Women In Trucking Foundation
   The Women In Trucking Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering women in the trucking industry. Through scholarships and mentorship, they help women pursue careers in trucking and logistics. By promoting diversity and inclusion, the foundation helps reshape the future of trucking for the better. 

Why These Non-Profits Matter 

The over-the-road trucking lifestyle is more than just a job—it’s a commitment to keeping America moving. These nonprofits provide critical support, from health and wellness to financial aid and family reunification. Whether you're a driver, a fleet manager, or simply someone who appreciates the work truckers do, consider supporting these organizations. Your contribution could help a trucker advance their career, stay healthy, get home safely, or continue their journey with dignity.