Truckers for Tots 2026
TRUCKERS FOR TOTS STORY
A tradition that outgrew one dealership
Mid-State Truck Service started Truckers for Tots more than 17 years ago so every child has a gift to open on Christmas morning. When Ascendance Truck Centers acquired Mid-State in February 2024, we promised to keep the tradition going. In 2026, we are expanding it to dealerships across both Ascendance and Allegiance.
Toys for Tots is a national, top-rated charity. 97% of donations go directly to providing toys, books, and gifts to children in need. For many families on a tight budget, toys come second to food, heat, and warm clothing.
Every dollar raised stays local and directly supports the communities we serve.
Partners
The success of Truckers for Tots reflects the generosity of our communities, customers and industry partners. We appreciate all support to help bring joy to children across our communities this holiday season and have sponsorship levels ranging from $50,000-$500. To confirm your sponsorship, please contact Tia Leonhard at tia@ascendancetrucks.com by October 31, to ensure enough time to capitalize on all ROI opportunities.
- Receives top-tier recognition across the network
- Logo prominently featured on trailer wraps throughout dealer network that are used and displayed year-round, not just during the event
- Logo featured on campaign flyers at parts and service counters in all 85 dealerships
Logo on sponsor T-shirts worn at shopping events - Premier placement on website, alongside the donation link and media coverage
- Recognition in national press releases to local chambers, associations and news stations
- Visibility in customer statement mailers and in manager outreach by email, phone and in person
How it works
Raise. Donate. Shop. Celebrate.
Raise
Dealerships collect funds and toys from customers, suppliers, and employees. Ascendance and Allegiance contribute financially alongside our partners.
Donate
All collected funds go into a dedicated account. 100% is used to purchase toys through Toys for Tots local chapters across the country.
Shop
Toys for Tots issues gift cards. Employees, customers, vendors, and their families pick out toys at shopping events held at designated retail partners nationwide.
Celebrate
Local and national media cover the shopping events and share the story of our industry giving back. Coverage and details go out through press releases, our websites, and social media.
Timeline
Key dates for 2026
Internal campaign kickoff meeting with Truckers for Tots local champions.
Vendor and customer sponsorship outreach begins.
Toy collection begins. Donation boxes at every location.
Shopping events are scheduled throughout the network, the first week of December.
From past years
Teams and toys from past years





In the news
Past coverage
- Ascendance truckers go shopping for Toys for TotsNorthern News Now from KBJR 6 and CBS 3, Duluth, Minnesota
- Trucking company collecting gifts for children for 14th yearWASW-TV Wausau,WI
- 17th annual Truckers for Tots helps keep Christmas magical for those in needWDIO.com
- Mid State Truck Has Successful Toys For Tots CampaignTruck Parts & Service
- Mid State Service Expands Holiday CharityTruck Parts & Service
- Truckers for Tots Collecting Toys and Money for Kids This ChristmasWDIO.com