Have you ever put off going to the doctor or having surgery because you cannot afford to take the time off of work? Do you have a hard time paying for your prescriptions? Has an injury or illness put you and your family in a financial bind? No, this isn’t an ad for an ambulance-chasing attorney, these are the situations the St. Christopher Trucker’s Development and Relief Fund (SCF) can help with.
The SCF is a 501(c)3 non-profit, driver charity that helps drivers whose medical issues have led to financial difficulties. Since 2007, the SCF has helped more than 555 drivers with their financial and medical needs.
The SCF was started by Dave Nemo of the Dave Nemo Show on XM radio and Dr. John McElligott in 2007, after witnessing and hearing countless stories of medical and financial hardships faced by drivers.
“Studies have shown that more than 70% of the 3.2 million professional drivers in the U.S. have one or more serious health problems such as obesity, diabetes, sleep disorders and cardiovascular disease. Truck drivers also lack the same access to health that most Americans enjoy.
“Access is limited because drivers work irregular hours, spend long-durations away from home, and are unable to navigate side streets and parking lots in their trucks to get to a clinic, pharmacy or hospital. Compounding the problem is the fact that more than one-third of truck drivers do not have health insurance,” the site states.
Because of the obstacles many drivers face, they are often unable to receive the necessary preventative care. Therefore, helping minor health issues turn into dangerous health conditions.
The mission of the St. Christopher Fund is to help drivers and their families who have financial needs as a result of medical problems. The SCF can help drivers with:
- Direct payments for medical services
- Prescription drug assistance
- Assistance with expenses during recovery from an illness or injury
- Help negotiate medical bills