Taking care of our people and communities has always been at the heart of Pilot Company. More than ever, we are focused on supporting our team members, serving those working tirelessly on the frontlines and lifting up those in need during this difficult time.
Our hearts go out to everyone that is facing hardships and unexpected challenges. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, we are fortunate to be surrounded by incredible organizations that are providing much-needed relief and services to people affected by COVID-19. We are committing $225,000 to four nonprofits and hope that our support will help the immediate needs of East Tennesseans and professional drivers across the country.
We truly appreciate these organizations for stepping up when people need help the most. Learn more about how to join us in supporting them or how to apply for assistance:
St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund (SCF)
SCF assists professional truck drivers and their families when an illness or injury has recently caused them to be out of work. Recognizing that more drivers may experience these hardships as they set out each day to help keep the economy moving, SCF is committed to being there for them when they need it most. Assistance from SCF may be in the form of direct payment to providers for household living expenses, such as rent/mortgage, utilities, vehicle payments and insurance.
“Professional drivers are facing this virus head-on as they crisscross the country delivering the essential supplies all Americans need, and this donation will help ensure that SCF will be there for our highway heroes when they need us most,” said Shannon Currier, SC director of philanthropy and development.
Professional drivers needing assistance from SCF can apply at truckersfund.org/application. To donate to SCF’s mission to support truckers and their families in financial need, visit truckersfund.org/donate.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley
Boys & Girls Clubs has been working tirelessly to maintain and expand services during this critical time, keeping seven clubs open for 10-plus hours a day to care for the children of essential workers. Each day, more than 300 youth enjoy fun activities and receive academic support daily, utilizing resources from the local school systems to help them keep on track academically while shifting to an online learning format. They also provide daily breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks to the kids.
“During this time of uncertainty one thing has remained the same, support from the Knoxville community,” President and CEO Bart McFadden said. “We are incredibly thankful for the work Pilot Company is doing to support Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley as we continue to keep our doors open for the families of essential workers.”
To help support Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, visit bgctnv.org/donate-now. Essential workers in need of childcare can learn more about their services and how to apply for no-cost care by visiting bgctnv.org/covid-19-updates-from-bgctnv/.
Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee
Second Harvest is the region’s largest hunger-relief charity, operating programs in 18 counties. The agency has increased their efforts to fight hunger as an unprecedented number of people find themselves needing assistance during this health crisis.
Every $35 donation helps Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee provide enough food to feed one person for two weeks.
Support for the organization “makes it possible for Second Harvest to purchase food and compile orders for agency partners; makes it possible for our agency partners to provide nourishment to children, adults and seniors; and makes it possible for East Tennesseans to have a meal on the table and food in their pantry,” said Elaine Streno, executive director of Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee.
To support Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, go to community.secondharvestetn.org/donatenow. For assistance, find the nearest food pantry by visiting secondharvestetn.org/find-a-food-pantry.
United Way of Greater Knoxville
United Way of Greater Knoxville recently opened the COVID-19 Response Fund to assist local nonprofit agencies that are staying open, expanding services and putting themselves on the line to ensure that no Knoxvillian goes without during this difficult time.
Many people have reached to United Way over the past few days looking for ways they can stay involved and contribute while under quarantine. This fund is a way for individuals to help their neighbors and make a difference while staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.
If you’d like to contribute, please visit www.uwgk.org or text “KNOXCOVID” to 41444. If you or someone you know is in need of information or assistance, please dial 2-1-1 or visit the Knox County Health Department’s website.
Thank you to those who are on the frontlines keeping America moving, fed and supported during COVID-19. We are committed to serving you.
To learn more about how we are supporting our team members and serving our guests, check out our blog. Stay up to date on how we are staying committed to our guests and continuing safety measures on our COVID-19 Resource Center.
