Driving Hope hits the road

WOMEN in Trucking Australia (WiTA) is encouraging the trucking community to climb on board as it partners with River’s Gift to shine a light on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS.)

As part of the partnership, truck drivers can purchase a Hope the Elephant Plush toy from River’s Gift and place her front and centre on their dashboards.

River’s Gift was founded by Karl Waddell and Alex Hamilton after losing their son River at 128 days old. Now, their SIDS-focused charity supports bereaved families, educates and funds research into the causes of SIDS.

WiTA chief executive officer Lyndall Denny said as a parent, River’s Gift and the organisation’s work struck a chord.

“As a mum of two and grandmother to six-month-old Daisy, the thought of losing a child to SIDS was excruciating.

“River’s Gift’s focus on preventing and eliminating SIDS is remarkable and the board quickly recognised the organisation as an important charitable cause for WiTA to support and align with.”

Through the campaign, WiTA hopes to raise $40,000 for the local organisation while truck drivers help their journey and spread the story around Australia.

Geelong-based TGR Transport started the campaign, donating $500 and purchasing five of the plush toys for the cause.

Mr Waddell said whether people are in cities, regional, or rural areas, SIDS does not discriminate.

“Linking arms with an organisation that has a presence and impact right across every corner of Australia is so important to us.

“This partnership with WiTA helps us reach so many Australian communities and families.

“Research and education are key to finally stamping out SIDS, and we look forward to seeing the ripple effect of this partnership spread across the country.”

The Driving Hope Campaign will run until November 7, the anniversary of River’s death.

For more information or to get involved, head to riversgift.org