Help ‘Fill the Boot’: Firefighter Fundraising Campaign for Muscular Dystrophy Research Goes Virtual

ALEXANDRIA, VA – During Labor Day weekends of past years, as you drove around the city, you probably noticed Alexandria firefighters standing in intersections. The boot they held out to drivers passing by held money.

If you gave, you participated in the “Fill the Boot” campaign, which supports the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) in their efforts to advance muscular dystrophy research and find a cure.

Muscular dystrophy, according to the CDC, is “a group of genetic disorders that result in muscle weakness over time.”

There are various types of muscular dystrophy and all can affect the body differently. To learn about the different types, click HERE.

The local “Fill the Boot” campaign is organized every year by the Alexandria Fire Fighters IAFF Local 2141. This year, because of COVID-19, 2141 had to devise a new way to hold the fundraiser.  As a result of their creativity, it is being held online. Donations are being accepted HERE.

If you wish, you can donate personally at the “Big Boot.” See the schedule below for dates and locations:

Station 206 (4609 Seminary Rd) Thursday 9/10
Station 207 (3301 Duke St) Friday 9/11
Station 208 (175 N. Paxton) Monday 9/14
Station 209 (2800 Main Line Blvd) Tuesday 9/15

Please be aware that firehouses are not open to the public at this time for health and safety reasons. Firefighters are following social distancing guidelines, so if you stop by, they will be wearing masks. They ask that the you do the same. There is an opening in the front of the “Big Boot” where you can leave your donation if a firefighter is not present. In-person donations can only be accepted in this manner.

To learn more about the history of the collaboration between MDA and the fire department, click HERE.

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