After two years of the pandemic causing limited participation, moms will get the full parade of truckers and supporters they deserve. On Sunday, May 8, Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware & Susquehanna Valley plans to roll its 33rd Annual Mother’s Day Truck Convoy with an unlimited number of semis.
“We are excited to return this event to its full scope, including the convoy carnival, auction, an addition of food trucks, and an unlimited number of truck drivers this year,” Jennifer Davis, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware & Susquehanna Valley, reportedly said. “We are counting on the local community, especially truck drivers, to make the convoy a success.”
The Mother’s Day Convoy included upwards of 500 heavy-duty commercial vehicles in its ranks before the pandemic. The parade of commercial vehicles and supporters was reportedly moved in 2019 and was pared down in 2020 and 2021. With the virus largely in retreat and vaccination rates hovering around two-thirds of the nation, truckers and organizers are enthusiastic about restoring the Mother’s Day tradition.
“I’m incredibly proud of the Convoy committee, who are working tirelessly to bring our full Mother’s Day Truck Convoy and family carnival to Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction this year,” Convoy Committee chairperson Terry Finch reportedly said. “I believe I speak for all of them when I say we’re thrilled that the convoy is back, and we can’t wait for everyone to see what we have in store at our new location.”
Revenue generated by the convoy funds approximately 75 percent of the foundation’s ability to grant wishes in the Susquehanna Valley each year. Professional CDL holders typically raise the lion’s share of the funds. The convoy remains open arms to drivers who want to participate, and an accompanying carnival is scheduled to be held at Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction. Early estimates peg the number of big rigs at more than 700. The carnival is expected to start at 8 a.m. on May 8. Convoy parking begins at 6 a.m., and truck drivers are scheduled to leave the Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction grounds at 1:30 p.m.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Make-A-Wish for the Mother’s Day Truck Convoy for our third year,” Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction Joey Hughes reportedly said. “The Mother’s Day Truck Convoy is an important fundraising event for Make-A-Wish, and our team is honored to host it at our location.”
The organization has reportedly fulfilled more than 7,500 wishes for critically ill children since 1986. Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware & Susquehanna Valley set a donation goal of $623,000 this year. Truckers who wish to participate in the Mother’s Day Convoy can sign up at wishconvoy.org. Those who would like to make a financial donation can visit Wish.org.
Sources: wish.org, truckersnews.com
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