As reported by the LAFD, firefighters across the country have been collecting funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) since 1954 through the “Fill the Boot” program.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the initiative.
The LAFD will launch this year’s campaign on May 29, 30, and 31, 2024, from 8 AM to 2 PM at various locations throughout Los Angeles.
The campaign invites pedestrians, motorists, customers, and passersby to contribute.
Donations can also be made online through the provided link.
The partnership between MDA and the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) has raised over $700 million in nearly seven decades, helping fund over a dozen FDA-approved drugs for neuromuscular disease treatment.
The collaboration between MDA and IAFF began in 1954 when IAFF designated MDA as its charity of choice.
Since then, the partnership has seen involvement from over 300,000 firefighters nationwide.
These efforts have contributed significantly to advancements in genetic medicine.
Donald S. Wood, Ph.D., President and CEO of MDA, stated: “With the support from our partners at the IAFF and UFLAC Local 112, MDA is doing the impossible in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for people living with neuromuscular disease.”
LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley expressed pride in the department’s participation in the campaign: “Partnering with the MDA is a long-standing tradition and it makes me proud that our members have an unwavering drive and passion to be out in our communities collecting donations to assist in much-needed therapy, education, research, advocacy, and support of neuromuscular diseases.”
UFLAC President Freddy Escobar highlighted the significance of the campaign: “Participating in Fill the Boot is our way of letting the communities we serve know that we are responding on the front lines and responding to your calls for help by assisting our neediest community members in the fight of their lives.”
Local businesses and individuals can contribute to the firefighters’ fundraising efforts by donating online.
The campaign aims to continue supporting MDA’s vision of accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of families affected by neuromuscular diseases.
The LAFD’s annual “Fill the Boot” campaign for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) underscores the long-standing partnership between the IAFF and MDA.
Since 1954, firefighters nationwide have committed to raising funds to support research and treatment for neuromuscular diseases.
This year’s campaign, set for May 29-31, 2024, continues this tradition, with LAFD members actively collecting donations on the streets of Los Angeles.
The collaboration has significantly impacted medical research, contributing to the approval of over a dozen FDA-approved drugs in recent years.
The partnership’s success is evident in the involvement of over 300,000 firefighters and the impressive $700 million raised to date.
The dedication of these firefighters goes beyond their daily duties, reflecting their commitment to community service and support for those in need.
