It's a Lifesaving Tradition

It all began when a group of families affected by muscular dystrophy approached Boston Firefighters Local 718 to ask professional fire fighters to help fight muscular dystrophy. Responding enthusiastically, the fire fighters took to the streets with their boots in hand to ask Greater Boston to make donations that would be used to fight muscular dystrophy.

The Fill the Boot campaign was an instant success, with the IAFF membership passing a resolution to support MDA's fight against muscular dystrophy until treatments and cures are found. Almost 70 years later, the IAFF continues its tradition as the top fundraising organization for MDA today, raising millions each year to support MDA reach faster breakthroughs and stronger futures for families.

Because of the support of fire fighters, MDA has been able to fund research directly linked to FDA-approved therapies across multiple neuromuscular diseases. These therapies are life-changing for MDA families, giving them greater access to life's possibilities. Funding supports the advancement of care through the MDA Care Center Network and much-needed education, recreation, advocacy, and community programs. This would not have been possible without the support of the IAFF and fire fighters across the US.

We’re proud to have the IAFF as our largest national partner and are thankful for the thousands of fire fighters who have participated in Fill the Boot drives across America, as well as those who have volunteered countless hours at MDA Summer Camps.