Fire Fighters Hope to "Fill the Boot"

Fire fighters will be out on the streets of Effingham asking motorists to help “Fill the Boot” for the Muscular Dystrophy Association on Friday & Saturday, August 23rd & 24th.

Every dollar that passing motorists can pitch into the fire fighters’ boots helps fire fighters provide medical treatment and support services to individuals and their families living with neuromuscular diseases in the Effingham area. This Friday and Saturday they will be at the corners of Banker and Jefferson, Third and Jefferson, and Maple and Jefferson from 7am -2pm.

“Fire fighters are American heroes who make such a difference for the people and families we serve,” said MDA Executive Director Mitch Davis. “The funds they raise are used for health care services and equipment support, and to help send kids to free MDA summer camps. We are grateful for everything they do.”

Fill the Boot funds also are used to support some of the 300 worldwide research projects seeking better treatments and cures for the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases covered by MDA, including Duchene muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy and ALS.

Fire fighters have raised money for MDA through their participation in the annual Fill the Boot campaign, as well as by sponsoring golf and softball tournaments. Many also contribute some of their vacation time each year to volunteer at MDA summer camps across the country.