The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association is holding its third Truckers for Troops Telethon this week to raise funds for care packages to be sent to U.S. troops stationed in combat areas overseas.
The campaign ends Dec. 11.

"We'd like for as many people as possible to send us cards and letters to put that special added touch in the care packages," said Norita Taylor, OOIDA's spokeswoman. "Especially from kids, it really means a lot."

During the telethon, new and renewal memberships will be discounted from $45 to $25, 10 percent of which will go towards the care package funds. The association will match the money raised, dollar for dollar.

"Land Line Now," the association's radio show on XM Satellite Radio, will promote the telethon during its regularly scheduled broadcasts, 7-8 p.m. Eastern time.

Some of the items included in the care packages sent in past years were self-heating coffees, socks and personal care items. However, among the most popular were the handmade greeting cards.

Earlier this year, OOIDA partnered with country singer and OOIDA member Leland Martin to raise funds for Truckers for Troops. A portion of the sales of his CD "Truckers for Troops" has been going toward the program.

More info: www.landlinenow.com