MFD Kicks Off 2009 "Fill the Boot" Fundraiser
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Milwaukee Fire Department Kicks Off the 2009 “Fill the Boot” Fundraising Campaign
All proceeds will go to the Muscular Dystrophy Association to help patients with neuromuscular diseases
Milwaukee—(August 26, 2009)— The Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD) is kicking off its 2009 “Fill the Boot” campaign to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) August 27-29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All 36 firehouses will participate in the campaign, and firefighting personnel will be on duty and in-service while collecting funds for a great cause. Each firehouse will campaign in the closest/busiest intersection to their location to solicit donations from motorists and pedestrians passing by. The 2009 “Fill the Boot” fundraising goal is $100,000. Last year Milwaukee firefighters raised $28,000.
“The Milwaukee Fire Department is happy to participate in this outstanding fundraiser once again to help the MDA offer vital services and support to those suffering from neuromuscular diseases,” said Fire Chief Douglas Holton. “We believe $100,000 is a feasible goal that the residents of Milwaukee will help us achieve by pouring out their support and filling the boot for MDA.”
This year’s MFD/MDA “Fill the Boot” Ambassador is Alexzandrea (Alex) Fields. Alex was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis at age three. Myasthenia Gravis is one of 43 different neuromuscular diseases covered by MDA.
“I support the efforts of the Milwaukee firefighters to raise money for a great charity that truly helps the adults and children living in our communities with neuromuscular diseases,” said Mayor Barrett. “All the proceeds collected from the “Fill the Boot” campaign stay in Southeastern Wisconsin, and help make a difference for those the Muscular Dystrophy Association serves.”
The firehouse that raises the most funds for the campaign, per shift, will receive a steak dinner compliments of MDA. Since 1954, the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) has raised nearly $300 million to support MDA’s mission and is the single-largest sponsor. As an IAFF member, the Milwaukee Fire Department has significantly contributed to the funds raised for MDA year-after-year.
“The MDA family is extremely excited for the Milwaukee Fire Department’s participation with Fill the Boot this year. It is the first year that all 36 firehouses are able to hit the streets and we are hoping for a huge success,” said Michelle Busch, district director for MDA. “We would like to offer our sincere appreciation to the Milwaukee Fire Department and those who help to fill their boots. Your donation will allow us to offer help and hope to “Jerry’s Kids” right here in our neighborhoods.”
Milwaukee Fire Department
The Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD) is the primary fire suppression, prevention, rescue and emergency medical service for the City of Milwaukee. The department’s motto is "Courage, Integrity and Honor." The MFD consists of approximately 1000 firefighters, many of whom serve simultaneously as paramedics providing emergency medical services. The MFD is known as one of the best fire departments nationwide for its response times and other quality services.
Muscular Dystrophy Association
MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.
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