SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Today, the California Trucking Association (CTA), in partnership with the California Highway Patrol, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services and members of the trucking industry, begin a week-long celebration honoring the millions of professional truck drivers who deliver America’s freight safely and securely each day.  

This year’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week runs from September 13-19, 2020 and takes on special meaning as we celebrate those truckers who worked to reduce the negative impacts of COVID-19 in California and across the nation by their efforts to limit the interruptions to the supply chain.

“As the negative effects of COVID-19 were felt in all communities across the state, our professional truck drivers stepped up,” said Greg Dubuque, president for CTA. “Despite facing unprecedented obstacles, including an initial shortage of personal protective equipment, the men and women of the trucking industry rose to the occasion and were there when we needed them the most, working tirelessly to keep store shelves stocked and other goods moving to those in need.”

CTA is marking the week with a number of events across the state, providing truckers with a drive-by lunch and personal protective equipment (PPE) packages to ensure drivers continue doing their job safely while keeping California’s supply chain moving.

“This year, the essential role truck drivers play in our daily lives was brought to the forefront as communities across the country experienced COVID-19’s detrimental impact on the supply chain,” said Shawn Yadon, CEO for CTA. “We are honored to take this time to celebrate their efforts and contributions.”

While truck driver appreciation events will continue to be hosted throughout the state, showing gratitude and appreciation for truck drivers will look a little different as the emphasis will be on PPE distribution at these facilities. 

Through a partnership with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), CTA has distributed hundreds of thousands of masks, face shields and more than a thousand gallons of hand sanitizer to members of the trucking community. As of August 31, 2020, the numbers of PPE distributed included: 

·       Hand Sanitizer: 1,659 gallons
·       Masks: 315,000
·       Face Shields: 9,400

To learn more about PPE availability for members of the trucking industry, to contribute equipment or for more information on NTDAW 2020, please visit www.caltrux.org.