For 25 years, members of Vandenberg Professional Fire Fighters Association Local F-116 have shown service goes beyond emergency response.
Through the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s (MDA) annual Fill the Boot campaign, Vandenberg firefighters have raised funds and awareness for individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases.
Continuing the tradition, Vandenberg firefighters will take to the streets with boots in hand to collect donations from passing motorists and community members, Dec. 5-6.
The community collection will take place 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the intersection of H Street and Central Avenue in Lompoc.
The partnership between MDA and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) began in 1954, when the IAFF adopted MDA as its charity of choice. Now celebrating 72 years of partnership, firefighters nationwide have raised more than $700 million through Fill the Boot and other fundraising efforts. The contributions have helped advance groundbreaking research; provided children with neuromuscular diseases opportunities to attend MDA Summer Camp; supported equipment assistance programs’ and expanded access to care and community resources.
“Local firefighters have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with MDA families for decades, helping make these programs and advancements possible,” organizers said.
“The continued commitment of Vandenberg firefighters reflects the lasting impact of community involvement and the difference that local support can make. Every donation helps move MDA’s mission forward and supports individuals and families living with neuromuscular diseases,” they said.
For community members unable to stop by in person, donations can be made online at www.mda.org/ftb.
For more about the IAFF, visit www.iaff.org. Learn more about MDA at www.mda.org.