(Tiffany Goodwein/ CHATNewsToday )

By Tiffany Goodwein

Love for truckers

Food for truckers: Community rallies behind those working to keep supply lines open

Apr 4, 2020 | 7:28 PM

REDCLIFF AB- Truck drivers on the long haul along the Trans Canada Highway near Redcliff know it by name, because its’ name embodies their very way of life. Trukkers.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, there has been increased pressure to stock the shelves and keep the supply lines open.

In Redcliff, truck drivers from across Canada are getting a token of appreciation, a free meal at Trukkers Restaurant thanks to donations from the community.

It all started after a Redcliff man walked into the restaurant on March 21. He handed over $100 and asked if he could buy meals for truck drivers.

“So I posted the thing on Facebook and within a second I got another donation from another man in Redcliff and I put a thank-you on Facebook and then I got several donations,” said owner Deni Watson.

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A free meal, while a simple gesture, has been greatly appreciated. Watson said many are bogged down by long hours on the road, and grueling conditions like a lack of showers and washrooms.

So when they are told their meal is free, Watson said their reaction is nothing short of touching.

“Some of them have tears in their eyes,” Watson said.

Truck drivers coming through have even taken to Facebook to share their thanks to the community.

“I would like to send a big thank-you to the people involved in the donations to Trukkers Restaurant in Redcliff AB. To give truckers a free hot meal. It is greatly appreciated, “ trucker Dwane Mclaren wrote on Facebook.

But with job losses, and so much unknown due to COVID-19, Watson said she is blown away by the community’s generosity but understands the difficult circumstances that many are in.

“ I don’t want people to feel like they are obligated. We are fortunate that there are so many that have been able to, but we are also very mindful that people cannot.” she said

As a restaurant owner she knows firsthand about the hardship. Business is down 80 per cent and she’s already had to layoff 27 staff.

“It’s hard time for everyone…so we know, it’s a very difficult time,” Watson said.

“Some people are fortunate and going through this financially unscathed if you are not, we get it.”

Still, an influx of donations the past two days means 100 more free meals for truckers.

The restaurant hopes to continue the free meals as long as the donations keep coming in.