DIEPPE, N.B. — It’s long been known that Maritimers are big-hearted folks not known for turning down a challenge.

This week, the truckers from Nova Scotia, P.E.I., New Brunswick and The Rock proved they’re living up to their rep.

The charity committee of the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association (APTA) has raised $18,600.27 for Haitian relief, and the committee is now challenging the rest of the APTA members to match it.

"As we have all been sadly witness to, the need is great," says Sharon Hogg, chair of this committee.

Adds APTA Executive Director Jean Marc Picard: "We felt that this was a very important cause to acknowledge, and through the generosity of our industry we raised $18,600.27 for the Canadian Red Cross Haiti Relief Funds."

"Those in the trucking industry are acutely aware of the challenges and importance of delivering vital goods where and when they’re needed and I can’t think of any situation where that’s more critical than in Haiti right now," says John L. Byrne, Director General for Atlantic Canada of the Canadian Red Cross.

"Their show of compassion and support for Red Cross humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti is deeply appreciated."

The APTA has more than 400 members, comprising of carriers, owner-operators, and associated trades suppliers.