18 Wheels of Christmas

Fluor Canada. You are The Spirit Of Giving !!!

2011-12-28T23:30:00.001-07:00

MMMM Timmies for people who work in transportation...who knew........

We have found a new definition for WOW and it is FLUOR Canada !!!!

18 Wheels of Christmas was invited by the Fluor Cares committee to be a part of their “Jeans Day for Food Event” Every employee who wants to wear jeans to work on the event day must bring a food or monetary donation for the food bank. This is the second year we were invited to this event and are absolutely amazed at the enthusiasm and generosity of these employees

At 6 am the 18 Wheels trailer pulled into the Fluor parking lot and we immediately set up. We barely had time to open the doors to the trailer when the donations started rolling in. Some were dropped off at the trailer others were dropped off in the beautiful front lobby of the Fluor building. Fluor had their cafeteria staff supply hot coffee for those of us outside (and it was cool at that time of the morning let me tell you) Coffee and donuts were available in the lobby for the donors and volunteers all morning.

It would not be a stretch to say every employee who walked into the building gave a donation. The bags of donations literally filled the main lobby area we could not bring in gaylords fast enough. By 9 AM the parking lot was full and we had amassed 1550 pounds of donated food and a whopping $3,300.00 cash.

We have to thank the FLUOR Cares committee, Chris Demler, Kelsey Hough for inviting us to be a part of this amazing event.

18 Wheels of Christmas has a wonderful secret shopper who knows how to get the most food for the dollar. Our secret shopper turned the $3300.00 into 4625 pounds of food. This amount also included a 1500 pound skid of the precious baby food. With the initial food collected on event day these few hours gave 18 Wheels of Christmas 6175 pounds of food.

Saskatoon Media Advisory !

2011-12-21T08:10:00.001-07:00

　
18 Wheels of Christmas Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre
December 20

On December 20th at 11 AM, Rosenau Transport will be pulling up to the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre in a 53 foot trailer with a very special Christmas gift. 18 Wheels of Christmas, conceived in 2002, was created to give the Global Transportation Community a way to give something back to the communities in which they live and work. As stated on the Rosenau website, "The concept, though simple, has far reaching effects for the less fortunate. Our ultimate goal is to use 18 Wheels of Christmas to stock every Food Bank in every community across the country at Christmas time!" Says Laurie O’Connor, Interim CEO of the Food Bank and Learning Centre: "This donation ensures that we can meet people’s needs in the coming months. We could not be more pleased with Rosenau’s tremendous show of support for the community." Carrie Willey from Rosenau Transport had this to say: "We are excited and thrilled that we can help those in need. We are really happy that the other transport companies and the public have pulled together to help make our campaign such a success in Saskatoon."
MEDIA INQUIRIES Laurie O’Connor
Interim CEO
Saskatoon Food Bank
Cell: (306) 370-6998
www.saskatoonfoodbank.org

Carrie Willey
Rosenau Transport
Ph: (306)244-7088

www.rosenau.org

Douglas Lake Sobey's

2011-12-21T08:05:00.001-07:00

December 3, 2011

We were invited back to the Douglas Square Sobey’s by our 2 favorite ladies Vyetta and Bev with this year a special request for our appearance from the store manager Jamie. This is the 9^th year we have been at this location and the people of the Douglas Glen and Douglasdale communities never stop surprising us.

Santa and his trailer arrived at 9:30 AM. The weather was pleasant and our enthusiasm was visible by the smiles on our faces. From the moment the doors to the trailer were opened and the music playing we had shoppers filling our grocery cart. The steady stream of people never seemed to end and neither did the smiles. The youngsters always excited to see Santa for a picture, a hug or a special treat from his bag kept the smiles on our faces until we closed the doors to the trailer at 1PM.

Once more we experienced the generosity of people and cannot describe the feeling as hampers and bags of groceries were placed in our shopping cart filling it to the brim. We could not empty the cart fast enough. There was not one special moment at this location as the entire 3 ½ hours spent there was special.

18 Wheels of Christmas came away with case lots of tuna, peanut butter, mac and cheese and a case of rice. To top this all off the Sobey’s manager, Jamie, and her team donated 50 prepackaged food hampers!!!!! Ask us if we are HAPPY?!!!!

We are now that much closer to filling this trailer to the limit for our December 21^st food bank delivery.

Again, Vyetta and Bev your spirit of support for this campaign is unmatched, thank you!!!!!!

The Generosity Of Lake Bonavista

2011-12-05T21:33:00.001-07:00

Could the Community of Lake Bonavista be more generous??!!!

November 26 found us at the Lake Bonavista Promenade from 9:30 AM until 1:00 PM. The weather was warm and so were the hearts of this Community. Vyetta and Bev invited 18 Wheels of Christmas back for the 9^th year in a row. The residents of this SE Calgary location never stop amazing us.

In the few hours we were there we received 390.00 in cash donations (this goes to the purchase of baby food) and filled 8 food bank donation boxes with non-perishable food items. The friendliness and compassion of these people absolutely knock our socks off. We saw people purchase cases of the pre-packaged food hampers bring them out to the trailer get into their vehicle and leave; which left us with the impression these kind people were only at the mall to donate to our cause.

To watch this kindness and to see how the parents of younger children teach the art of giving selflessly to others is alive and well does the heart good.

Santa and his gift bag were again a big hit with the little ones and even some of the older ones who could not resist a picture with the big guy and enjoy a candy cane.

We all left tired but happy and so grateful for the chance to once again be a part of the Lake Bonavista Community.

Okotoks Holiday Light up

2011-12-04T13:22:00.001-07:00

Twas a cold, frosty night but the hearts and smiles were warm!!

The Okotoks Holiday Light up was a huge success this year. This was the 3^rd year 18 Wheels of Christmas had a presence at the Holiday Light Up and to date our most successful. The weather was not in agreement for the 18 Wheels crew at -25 and windy it was the coldest we had experienced at this venue. The families taking part in the festivities certainly warmed the hearts of our volunteers with their donations of cash and food.

18 Wheels was very pleased to present to Karen Wilke of the Okotoks Food Bank $970.00 in cash donations, over 50 bags of Safeway food hampers and 10 bags of donated food. The generosity and compassion of this community is outstanding. There were groups handing out toques in case you forgot yours and another with hot apple cider which the 18 Wheels crew was very grateful for.

From the start of the evening’s festivities to the closing with a brilliant fireworks display all we can say is thank you Marg, Karen and the wonderful people of Okotoks for inviting us to share another evening with you. We look forward to next year.

Saskatoon is Rocking the Numbers!

2011-12-04T13:16:00.001-07:00

We had a very exciting time at the Santa Claus parade here in Saskatoon, We received honorable mention for our campaign on November 20th.

Since we began collecting for the Saskatoon Food Bank and learning Centre we have to date received $5,746.11 in monetary donations.

We look forward to attending the Saskatoon Blades game November 30^th with our trailer.

On December 10^th we will be located at The centre at Circle and 8^th Street from 9-12pm and Sobey’s in Preston Crossing from 1-4pm

Again we are looking into setting up our trailer on December 17^th at the Mall at Lawson Heights from 9-12pm.

Douglas Lake Mall welcomes 18 Wheels again

2011-11-07T16:34:00.002-07:00

18 Wheels of Christmas has been invited back to the Douglas Square Mall Sobey’s for Dec 3 from 10 am to 12 pm. This mall along with the Lake Bonavista Promenade has been a major contributor to 18 Wheels of Christmas since our first year. Once again a huge thank you to Yvetta and Bev for their continued support.

Saskatoon is going hard !

2011-11-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, all of our sponsors, partners and contributors to The 18 Wheels Of Christmas Campaign better start stepping up if they want to keep up to Toon Town!! Way to go Carrie, Chelsey and Team!

Saskatoon has a new major sponsor.

C95, Rock 102, and News Talk Radio 650 CKOM

As well; we will be located at The mall at Lawson Heights November 26^th from 9am-12pm

Extra Foods on Waneskewin Road from 1pm-4pm on Nov 26^th

Then December 10^th we will be located at The Circle at Centre and 8^th Street from 9am-12pm and Sobey’s at Preston Crossing that afternoon from 1pm-4pm.

We will make our delivery to the Saskatoon Food Bank and learning Centre on December 20^th.

Lake Bonavista !

2011-10-21T22:13:00.000-06:00

Make sure you join the Calgary Crew at the Lake Bonavista Promenade on November 26th from

9:30 am to 1:30 pm. These folks have been long time supporters of the 18 Wheels Of Christmas Campaign. This is being hosted by Vyetta Sunderland and Bev Blue. Come on out and show your appreciation and help support a worthy cause. Our goal is to ensure NO ONE goes hungry at Christmas and beyond.

Remember,

The Magic Begins With You !

And The Fun Begins !

2011-10-18T20:27:00.001-06:00

There is no better place to start the update than where 18 Wheels all started.....Calgary has been fielding calls and turning wheels....I know this is just the start....

So far Calgary has

November 18^th Okotoks Holday Light Up this is our 3^rd year doing this

December 9^th we are at Fluor from 6am to 12PM this is a Fluor driven food collection event. Last year we collected about 12 food donation boxes from this Company in 2 hours. Bonita Hamilton of Fluor organizes this event and her response from the employees is tremendous.

In Saskatoon, things are really shaping up as Saskatoon Coordinator Carrie Wiley updates us........

In Saskatoon we are planning the following events:

1) We are going to televise our campaign on CTV to inform the following events with Jeff Rogstad.

2) We will take part in the 21^st Annual Santa Claus Parade November 20^th-2011

3) As well we plan to set up the 18 Wheels of Christmas trailer at three different mall locations accept donations, and raise money toward helping those in need.

Lawson Heights Mall

Sobeys

Centre at Circle and 8^th

4) We also have planned to set up donation boxes throughout different locations in the city.

5) There will also be the help of elementary schools putting together hampers of non perishable food items.

With the money raised we will purchase much needed items for the Food Bank.

Once again we are challenging others in the transport business, and suppliers to help fill this trailer.

We will deliver the food on December 20^th to the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre.

Outstanding Carrie, We look forward to hearing more from Toon Town on the success of these collection efforts!

Out in Brandon Manitoba, Coordinator Paul Drakely could barely get the first invitation out and his phone was ringing off the hook......

Well we are just getting going with this. I am trying to get ahold of the local food bank to start this all off. I received our first $500 dollar donation within 15 minutes of sending out our invitation to all our friends out there. A very big thank you and well done to the crew at Crane Steel.

And out in Sparwood BC, Event Coordinator Cindy Dwyer is itching to get that region rolling and has been in contact with local businesses and service clubs with a view to knocking last years efforts out of the water.....

2011 Bigger and Better

2011-10-18T13:07:00.002-06:00

You know all those promises you make ......Yes honey, I am going to finish the basement....Yes honey, I will clean up my tools....Yes Mom, I will clean my room...... Yes organizers and executives of The Eighteen Wheels Of Christmas...I will keep up the Blog ! It is completely unnecessary and unprofessional of you to threaten me with that whole Santa Claus and the naughty list..(Just in case, let him know I am trying to catch up)

So sorry, we have been somewhat lax on updating you all on the blog......but NO longer......we shall endeavor to set the matter straight......we shall move forward.....we shall forge ahead.....we shall...........ummm well you get the idea. Stay Tuned, all of our wonderful 18 Wheels Supporters. There is much news to come and many terrific anouncements......and this time, we shall keep you posted.....

18 Wheels Is Gearing Up For 2010 !!!!

2010-10-18T23:42:00.000-06:00

The 2010 holiday season is fast approaching, and the 18 Wheels of Christmas program is getting ready to begin rolling! Once again, we are looking for help to fill our trailers and support your local food bank.

Rosenau Transport has donated another trailer to this amazing program which will service the Saskatoon region, which saw a very successful food drive completed in 2009. With the help of the Transportation Industry, local businesses and citizens of Saskatoon and sponsors like Kast Logistics and Fountain Tire, we are hoping to fill the local Food Banks in Saskatoon. This new trailer will help and provide you with more opportunities to see the trailer and your company name rolling along.

A small donation of $500 or more, will get your company name on one of the 18 Wheels trailers for a year. It is our way of recognizing those that help their local communities and to say thank you!

We look forward to a very successful 2010 and to give back to the communities that give so much to us.

As always, you can drop off your donation at your closest Rosenau Transport branch or we can come to you!

To request a donation pickup or for any questions, please contact us at 1-800-640-9602 or by email 18wheels_xmas@rosenau.org

The Magic Begins With You!

Magical First Year in Sparwood !

2010-01-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

With this being 18 Wheels of Christmas’ first year in British Columbia (Sparwood) we feel we accomplished our goals and did GREAT with donations!! The response in Sparwood was AWESOME!!

The final numbers that the 18 Wheels of Christmas raised for the Sparwood Food Bank Society was a magical $3350!! We received many donations over $250 from many of the local businesses in Sparwood, the weather was so COLD, most people did not drop off grocery donations but instead dropped off cash or a cheque which allowed us to fill the Christmas hampers with missing items.

We are so excited and thankful of how many people/businesses got on board with the 18 Wheels of Christmas and are looking forward to doing it all over again in 2010!!

THANK YOU CALGARY !

2010-01-05T17:54:00.000-07:00

From the time we launched in October until we delivered to the Calgary Food Bank in December we were kept busy. We received emails and calls from past and new supporters some asking if the criteria was the same as previous years others asking what we are all about.

Reed Black, Anchor/Reporter, from LandLine Now in Missouri contacted us for our annual launch story he does for the Sirius radio broadcast. It is always exciting and entertaining to do this with Reed. His program gives 18 Wheels so much exposure across Canada and the US. We have had calls from people in Lloydminster and Vermillion as well as local truckers who have heard his show. Thank you, Reed, always a pleasure to speak with you.

We were again invited by Vyetta and Bev to have 18 Wheels of Christmas join them at the always exciting Lake Bonavista Promenade and Douglas Square Mall. These 2 communities have supported us for 7 years and it never ceases to amaze us of the generosity of the residents.

November 14 we were at Douglas Square Mall the weather was much to our liking but Santa was a little warm. The stream of shoppers was steady and all were in the giving mood. Once all the pre-packaged hampers, done up by the great Sobey’s staff, were gone shoppers started to bring out groceries off the shelf it reminds us the convenience of the pre-packaged hampers isn’t the reason people donate it is because they want to. The residents of Douglas Glen and Douglas Dale proved this to us over and over in the 2 ½ hours we were there. Santa was there to greet the wee ones and to hand out candy canes. We left this location with happy hearts and 4 skids of food.

On November 16th we received a call from Leah Carter of the Okotoks Food Bank. Leah wanted us to participate in the annual Okotoks Light Up. Problem was festivities start on November 20th not much time for us to coordinate but Leah and Marg Cox the Okotoks Community Events Planner assured us all would be well they would put the advertising in place etc. This was our first ever evening date and we were looking forward to it. The weather was still co-operating so we felt this would not be a freeze your feet, hands and ears night. Ron Lewin, Mike Rosenau and all the guys from the shop busied themselves to get the original 48’ Christmas Trailer ready for us. Lights and music all powered by our generator which Ron serviced and made certain it was workable. We were scheduled to be in Okotoks at 5PM our instructions were to park at the West end of Elizabeth Street this is the main street in the community and we could not quite figure out how we would get the tractor and 48’ trailer parked so as not to block traffic. When we arrived we found the entire main street is blocked for this function Marg had us park where we would be most visible. The 18 Wheels crew was so excited this is an actual street party and the whole community comes to it. There are hayrides, fire pits set-up along the entire street, street musicians and more. The evening held many surprises for us, not only did the trailer look fabulous but the attention it received was more than we would have ever thought. People stopped, read all the contributors names, questioned us as to what we were about then proceeded to take out their wallets and donate. One gentleman took the time to write a cheque, one lady came around the corner of the trailer with a huge box filled to the brim with donated food. The evening was capped off with fire-works display. We left Leah with over $400.00 in cash and 1 skid of food for the Food Bank. We are excited to say Marg and Leah want 18 Wheels back for next year.

November 28 we were at the Lake Bonavista Promenade 9:30 a.m. sharp. Vyetta was not there this year to help instead she sent her assistant Susan along with Bev to assist in collecting the donated food and money. We were busy from the get-go. We had no sooner opened the trailer doors when donations started rolling in. One family drove right up to the trailer in a large SUV, jumped out and started unloading bag after bag, box after box of food. All we could do was stand back amazed at the generosity of this family this would be what set the tone for the remainder of our time at this location. The 18 Wheels cash can was ¾ full by 11:00 a.m. The people going into the mall would tell us we were the only reason they were out at this time of the morning they wanted to do their shopping with the sole purpose of donating to !8 Wheels for the Food Bank. Carts of groceries were donated, we almost emptied the display of the pre-packaged hampers, Safeway staff members would run out on their breaks with donations of food they had purchased. It always puts a smile on our faces to see not only the young kids but also the older ones (adults) who want to stop and chat with our Santa and receive a candy cane from him. Ah ha moments this morning were everywhere. We left with $573.00 in cash (for the purchase of baby food) and 10 gaylords of food. This was all accomplished in 3 hours. Thank you to Vyetta, Bev, Susan and of course Safeway and the merchants of Lake Bonavista Promenade for making the 2009 campaign a success.

December 4th was a dark and stormy night but our 18 Wheels of Christmas Santa had promised Pastor John of the Millet Food Bank he would be there as the CP Christmas train would not. Santa carefully guided his rig and the original 48’ trailer through one of the worst snow storms we have seen in quite sometime to arrive on time and in one piece to join in the celebration of the Millet Winter Festival. Santa handed out candy canes, enjoyed the festivities of the evening and left the Millet Food Bank $600.00 richer and 411 pounds of food heavier. Santa did say about this event “A colder night there never was but the hearts could not have been warmer.”

With our date of delivery to the Food Bank looming closer we still had a ways to go to at least match last year’s total of 24 skids we were sure we would fall quite short of the target. It was time now to start collecting the food donation gaylords we had set out in different businesses throughout the city and pick up from the other transportation companies who had let us know they once again wanted to participate. Vitran Express had 3 skids for us to pick up we were so grateful and in expressing our thanks were stopped short with this comment “You guys do something great for our city and it is an honor to be on board.” With comments like that it is easy to see why 18 Wheels keeps coming back each year. Calgary Labour Service a supplier to the industry had this to say “We are glad to help out and thank you for what you do.” It is because of our transportation company participants we were able to supply to the Women In Need Society a skid of personal toiletries. To the Okotoks Food Bank and to the Eastside Victory Outreach 10 frozen turkeys each to assist them in assisting others in need at this time of year.

Our final wrap up was on December 21 we were proud and excited to deliver to the Calgary Food Bank 24,000 pounds of food. The comment made to us on that evening was about the good quality of food and how it is we always fulfill the wish list of items needed. We also were able to purchase $877.00 worth of baby food from all our cash donors. We are hoping for a bigger and better year next year.

Reed Black once again did his year end wrap up with us on December 23rd our totals were broadcasted out for all to hear this included the 18 Wheels of Christmas totals from Sparwood BC, Saskatoon Sask, Lloydminster AB, Edmonton and Calgary AB. Way to go guys!!!

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped to achieve the amount of success we have had. Thank you to all our new participants we hope to see you on board next year. A huge thank you to our 18 Wheels of Christmas team without your help and dedication we could not achieve this level of accomplishment.

Big Things Are Happening in Saskatoon

2009-12-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

2009 is the first year for Rosenau Saskatoon to come on board with the 18 Wheels of Christmas food drive, and they couldn't be doing better. Thanks to 18 Wheels Saskatoon coordinators Tim Rosenau and Carrie Willey, big things are brewing in Bridge City and the 18 Wheels trailer will make several stops to Saskatoon this holiday season!

The trailer was involved with the 19th annual Saskatoon Santa Clause Parade and it was a huge success!

Rosenau Saskatoon and the 18 Wheels program received honorable mention from the Festival of Trees in Saskatoon.

The are several more chances to donate to your local Saskatoon Food Bank with the 18 Wheels of Christmas program before our police escorted delivery to the food bank on December 14.

Join us at the Mall at Lawson Heights from 9am - 3pm on December 12 or The Centre Mall from 11am-3pm on December 13 and help fill the trailer.

18 Wheels Travels The Lloydminster Area

2009-12-05T14:49:00.000-07:00

As with previous years, the 18 Wheels trailer is traveling through East Central Alberta with the Lloydminster Christmas Convoy!

On December 3, the convoy stopped at the East-Alta Co-Op in Vermilion, AB. With Lloydminster local radio station, The Goat, on site, donations poured in.

Then it was on to East-Alta Co-op in Wainwright on December 4.

The convoy will be back in Lloydminster on Saturday, December 5. We will be set up on site at the Co-op Marketplace and Safeway grocery store in Lloyminster.

Stay tuned for updates and progress in the Lloydminster 18 Wheels drive!

18 Wheels is trucking on in Calgary !

2009-12-05T14:26:00.001-07:00

18 Wheels Calgary launched Oct 2^nd emailing and handing out our new flyers designed by Tori of Pro Trucker magazine. We had our firstmedia interview on Oct 8^th with Reed Black of LandLine Now out of Grain Valley Missouri a Sirius Radio Station. Reed has done a start and a finish with us for the last 2 years and it is always exciting talking with him. Pro Trucker Magazine, Truck News and Today’s Trucking each did a story on the 2009 18 Wheels of Christmas campaign to help kick start the drive.

There have been several big events in the Calgary area so far this year in support of the food drive:

November 14^th Douglas Square Sobey’s. 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Santa, the 53’ Christmas trailer and helpers spent the 2 hours handing out Christmas canes and accepting donations.

November 20^th The Annual Holiday Light-up Okotoks 5:30PM to 8:30PM

Our first ever evening engagement and we really enjoyed it. We had the original 48’ Christmas trailer all lit up ready to accept donations.

November 28^th Lake Bonavista Promenade 9:30 AM to 1:00PM 6^th year at this location and as always Santa and helpers enjoyed meeting the residents and accepting donations.

-- HELP SUPPORT THE 18 WHEELS CALGARY DRIVE --

As always, you can call Rosenau Transport and we will pickup your donations. New this year, you may always drop your food donations off to one of our collection bins set up around the city. See below for your closest collection bin.

Univar Canada 4220 78 Ave SE
Chief Hauling 5654 55^th St SE
Bess Tank Lines 4646 32^nd St SE
Mid West Surveys 2827 Sunridge Blvd SE
Titan Transport # 11 1235 64^th Ave SE
Telus World of Science 701 11^th St SW
Maxim Truck & Trailer 6707 84^th St SE
Singer Specialized 235132 84^th St SE
Desa Glass 3195 9^th St SE
Harrington Diesel #F 8240 31 St SE
Alberta Council for Disability Services #19 3320 5^th Ave NE

Get Ready 2009! 18 Wheels Kicks Off Bigger Than Ever !

2009-11-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well its that time of year again ! Time to show your support for the 18 Wheels of Christmas program and give a hand up to those less fortunate this holiday season and beyond. Every year is a huge success for this program, and it seems to grow larger each year.

This year, we welcome Rosenau Transport Saskatoon to the program. We know they will do well and we are very glad to see this program moving into Saskatchewan!

Once again, we are challenging everyone, especially those in the transportation industry to help support our cause and feed the hungry during the holidays. It has been a tough year, especially with the recession. No one was immune to the effects of the bad economy especially your local food banks. Just a few weeks ago, the Edmonton Food Bank reported a 71.5% increase in food hamper use. The Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank is reporting a 40% increase in demand from last year. And these numbers keep repeating all across the country.

You can help make a difference! Please help donate food or money to the 18 Wheels of Christmas program and support your local food banks. All donations of $250.00 or more will get your name on the side of our 18 Wheels of Christmas trailer. Your name will be seen by thousands of people all year long as this trailer move around Western Canada.

Contact your closest local Rosenau Service Centre to arrange a donation or pickup.

The Magic Begins With You !

2009-04-07T16:23:00.001-06:00

Click on the pictures above to enlarge and read our Thank You Card!

Wrapping Up 2008!

2009-03-16T11:43:00.000-06:00

2008 was a HUGE success for the 18 Wheels program !

The generousity of Albertans really shined through and our Food Banks are extremely grateful. In these tough times, there are many people who require a little extra help to make the holidays a cheerful time. Thanks to our sponsors and donors, we helped make this a little more possible.

A big thank you must go out to our contributors:

OCEAN TRAILER *** FIRST TRUCK *** THERMO KING *** ROSENAU TRANSPORT *** AIR LIQUIDE *** GRENCO *** DALE CHRISTENSEN *** TRUCK NEWS *** BESS TANK LINES ***COMPACT RENTALS *** WINGENBACK INC. *** GLOBAL TRANSPORT *** ALLIANCE BUILDING MAINTENANCE *** THE GEAR CENTRE *** THE EMPLOYESS OF NABORS DRILLING *** CATTLEBOYZ *** TST OVERLAND *** DIAMOND TRUCKS *** K-97 *** CISN 103.9 *** HOME DEPOT 7248 *** DRB MECHANICAL *** PRO TRUCKER *** TRIVEE TRANSPORT *** BRIAN'S PORT-A-POTTIES *** J&R HALL TRANSPORT *** CLARKE TRANSPORT *** HOPEWELL DISTRIBUTION *** TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE CALGARY *** LEDCOR CONSTRUCTION *** TRANSCOM FLEET *** BFI CANADA *** MERCHANTS OF LAKE BONAVISTA PROMENADE *** MERCHANTS OF DOUGLAS SQUARE SOBEYS *** MERCHANTS OF BELMONT SOBEYS *** MERCHANTS OF HAWKSTONE SOBEYS *** MERCHANTS OF MEADOWBROOK SOBEYS *** CONSOLIDATED FASTFRATE INC. *** SINGER SPECIALIZED LTD. *** 106.1 THE GOAT AND THE CHRISTMAS CONVOY *** MANITOULIN TRANSPORT *** BIG HORN TRANSPORT *** STYLE CRAFT PRINTING *** STAN POULSEN TRUCKING *** BOGHEAN & CO. ACCOUNTANTS *** GOUW QUALITY ONIONS *** VITRAN *** NESTLE CANADA *** CARON TRANSPORTATION *** STIER FINANCIAL *** FREIGHTLINER ***

18 WHEELS OF CHRISTMAS could not have done this without the generous contributions of these companies and individuals. Thank you.

And perhaps most importantly, we want to thank the public at large who continue to support and further this great cause through your donations of non-perishable food items and financial contributions wherever you see an 18 Wheels of Christmas collection point.

THE MAGIC BEGINS WITH YOU

Calgary Comes out as Champions!

2009-03-16T11:32:00.000-06:00

Way to go Calgary!!! The 2008 18 Wheels of Christmas campaign was a huge success. The numbers are in and Calgary’s team and donors raised an astonishing $101,968.00 of food and cash donations. Because of the support of our donors we were able to assist the Christmas Food Drive in reaching a goal of more than $883,000.

We sure did not think we would achieve even a fraction of this. Our launch date was October 2, interest and donations trickle in from that date onwards and our anticipation starts to dwindle. Our 2 very special ladies Vyetta and Bev always lift our spirits by setting the dates they want the 18 Wheels trailer and team at 2 locations. The Lake Bonavista Promenade and the Douglas Square Sobey’s. Again this year we would be doing the Grey Cup weekend we had so much fun last year we were pumped to be doing this date again.

November 22nd we started at 9:30 AM at Lake Bonavista Promenade. The residents of this community are always supportive and generous of our venture and the need we are trying to fill. From the time the doors to Safeway opened until our 1 o’clock end time it was a steady stream of shoppers and donations. One lady went in for a jug of milk and brought out a shopping cart full of groceries for the trailer thanking us for what we are doing, grabbing her jug of milk, hugging Santa off she went to continue her busy day. This would be repeated during our 3 ½ hour stint time and time again. On this day we were able to fill 11 skids with food.

Grey Cup Day November 23 not only did Calgary bring home the Cup, 18 Wheels of Christmas was a huge winner too from our 3 ½ hours at the Douglas Square Sobey’s. The generosity of this community cleaned out the pre-packaged food hamper bags. There were many shoppers purchasing Grey Cup Party items but this did not stop them from donating. We packed up the trailer with 7 more skids of food. A trend we noticed at both these locations were the families with their children normally we saw the adults bring the donations over but this year the parents stood back while the children brought the donations. It solidified for us that giving is not dead.

Nothing happened for Calgary until the 2nd week of December. The trailer was already on its way for Edmonton to work their magic and we feared we would not be able to compete what with the hype coming from Ken, Jodi and Justin the Edmonton 18 Wheels of Christmas Team.

While both the 18 Wheels of Christmas trailers were in Edmonton we certainly did not let that stop us. Our monetary donations started rolling in which meant shopping for Food Bank Wish List items. Also donations from other transportation and support industry started arriving this meant sorting and rewrapping each skid according to food items.

Because of the kind donations from all our supporters 18 Wheels was able to deliver to the Mustard Seed Shelter in the Calgary Foothills Industrial area 4 skids of personal toiletry items. When a call came out from the Vibe 98.5 the Mustard Seed was in dire need of turkeys for their annual Toyurkey Drive 18 Wheels was able to give a hand up with 48 turkeys, this would assist in their goal of 200 hampers for families in need.
We delivered to the Calgary Interfaith Food Bank on December 19th the 53’ 18 Wheels of Christmas trailer full of food and an envelope for $7,648.00 receipted food.

For thousands of people in Calgary putting food on the table is a struggle. Last year nearly 90,000 Calgarians went to the Food Bank to receive emergency hampers. 43% were children. Thanks to all our contributors support children in this city and surrounding areas will not have to go to school without having eaten a proper breakfast. Their parents can go to work with energy and hope, and without stressing what they will put on the table for dinner that night. Thank you all for choosing to support the 18 Wheels of Christmas 2008 campaign.

Thank you to our strong team of volunteers consisting of management, administrative personnel, professional drivers, warehouse staff and mechanics. Special thanks to our graphics team. Without your dedication and time we could not have achieved the success this campaign has had. We look forward to next year and with all your help we hope to beat 2008’s total.

BIG Delivery in Edmonton !

2009-03-16T11:23:00.000-06:00

18 Wheels 2008 - Update for Edmonton:

The 18 Wheels Edmonton team pulled into the Edmonton Food Bank on December 16. The team was met by very excited Food Bank staff. Santa Clause himself hauled in a full 53' trailer while his helpers followed closely with a full 48' trailer.

It was Edmonton's second year involved in the 18 Wheels Christmas drive, and it was a HUGE success. We didn't do it alone though, and have to thank many people.

First off, we have to thank the entire staff that dedicated their time to this cause. The program was run and organized by Ken Rosenau, Jodi Manning, and Justin Fillier of the Rosenau Edmonton terminal. We also must send a huge thank you out to CISN FM 103.9 and Terry Evans and his crew from the K97 radio station. As well, all the many sponsors that donated food and money.

We teamed up with CISN for a day of fundraising at three Sobeys locations in Edmonton. WOW ! Even despite current economic problems, Edmontonians continue to show just how generous and charitable they can be. We would also like to extend our thanks to everyone at Sobeys.

Next was a huge event with Terry Evans of the K97 morning show. Terry braved the frigid Edmonton winter and lived in our trailer in support of the food bank. Terry came on the radio every morning urging Edmontonians to donate. He vowed not to get out of the trailer until the food pushed him out..... and he lived up to that promise. Terry filled our trailer with the help of many people, including local firemen and military personnel.

On behalf of the Rosenau Edmonton team and the Edmonton Food Bank, thank you to all our sponsors and everyone that donated.

Edmonton Puts The Hammer Down!

2009-02-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

Well, when the Edmonton terminal of Rosenau Transport decides to step up to the plate and do their part for 18 Wheels Of Christmas, they do it in style and size large!

Under the watchful eye of the 18 Wheels, Edmonton Coordinator, Jodi Manning, the Edmonton crew has already garnered lots of media interest in their 18 Wheels activities. They have even started receiving financial donations, including a cheque from Wingenback Transport as well as Global Transport and promises for more to come. We cannot overestimate the value of the support that we get from our partners in the Transportation Industry when it comes to the support of such a worthwhile cause.

The Edmonton Crew has many collection plans and we will update you has they become solidified, (is that really a word?).

November 28th The 18 Wheels Trailers will be at 3 Sobeys locations along with CISN 103.9 FM

December 15th The 18 Wheels crews will be heading out to 3 different Diamond Truck locations to collect the food that this outstanding company is collecting for 18 Wheels.

December 16th Delivery Day to the Edmonton Food Bank!

We wish Edmonton luck with all their collection efforts and we can't wait to see some pics and hear your stories as these events unfold. Check back often, we will keep you updated!

The Ball...errrr...Boulder is Rolling!

2009-02-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

Well, it only seems fitting that our 18 Wheels Campaign kicks off where it all started! Calgary has a couple dates lined up for collection this year and we are thrilled to be back at Lake Bonavista Promenade and Douglas Square Sobey's. These two locations have been such strong supporters of our 18 Wheels Campaign that a year without you would just not be the same. So keep an eye out for that beautiful 18 Wheels Trailer being pulled by the Rosenau Truck on:

November 22nd 9:30 am to 1:00 pm Lake Bonavista Promenade
November 23rd 9:30 am to 12:00 pm Douglas Square Sobeys

They will be taking donations of food and cash at both locations. All cash donations are used to purchase the often overlooked, but, much needed baby food for the Food Bank. And, just in case you are new to our website and have not had the chance to read about The 18 Wheels Of Christmas campaign, it is important to know that "ALL" donations collected in a community stay in that community.

We will keep you posted on the success of these collection days and remember, if you can't be there to help or donate, please, make sure you drop an email to 18wheels_xmas@rosenau.org to find out how you can help make sure that no one goes hungry this holiday season and beyond!

A New Year Kicks Off!

2009-02-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

18 Wheels is set to roll again! Event planning is underway and we are sure this will be our biggest year yet!

Stay tuned to the webpage and we will keep you posted on all the exciting news. And remember, 18 Wheels is nothing without our partners and customers in the Transportation Industry,so please, if you have not already done so, contact us to find out how you can help put food into your local Food Bank!