IAFF affiliates across Canada camped out on firehall rooftops, conducted roadside boot tolls and held other fundraising initiatives to raise $1.1 million for Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC) last year.
The fundraising, which taps into community generosity, is vital for MDC and its mission, which includes direct support for Canadians living with neuromuscular disorders through services like one-on-one support and funding wheelchairs and other accessibility devices that promote independence.
Among IAFF affiliates that supported MDC last year was Edmonton, AB Local 209, a perennial leader in fundraising for the charity, which has counted on fire fighter support since 1954.
In the middle of February, with temperatures plunging during a polar vortex, Edmonton fire fighters camped out on the rooftop of Firehall 2 to raise public donations. Through their annual Rooftop Campout and other initiatives, Local 209 raised $132,000 for MDC, tops among Canadian IAFF locals for the fiscal year ending March 31.
Raising funds for MDC is just one of the community-oriented things Edmonton fire fighters do. And it’s a great source of pride, says Edmonton Local 209 President Greg Rehman.
“Our fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy Canada is a great way to connect with our community while raising funds for an important cause, one that all fire fighters hold close to their hearts,” Rehman said.
With the funding it receives from IAFF affiliates, MDC also conducts advocacy and funds research into treatments, potential cures and newborn screening programs, which have revolutionized treatment for spinal muscular atrophy, for example.
Muscular Dystrophy Canada CEO Stacey Lintern said because the charity isn’t government funded, the contributions that IAFF affiliates make each year make everything they do possible.
Our fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy Canada is a great way to connect with our community while raising funds for an important cause, one that all fire fighters hold close to their hearts.
Edmonton AB Local 209 President Greg Rehman
“Every dollar raised helps advance research, improve early diagnosis and expand access to life-changing treatments,” she said. “Just as importantly, fire fighters are leaders in our organization, helping guide our work and strengthening our community. Seeing the drawings and letters from families at our retreats reminds us that this partnership is deeply personal and truly life-changing.”
Other fundraising standouts include St. Albert, AB Local 2130, which raised $50,000 for MDC last year, and Riverview, NB Local 2549, which set a new record by raising $21,113 with an Easter boot drive.
At MDC family retreats, children and families often share their gratitude directly with fire fighters through drawings, letters and messages of thanks. “These heartfelt expressions are a powerful reminder that the impact of Fill the Boot goes far beyond dollars raised. It is about connection, hope, and community,” Lintern said.
Lintern said that fire fighters support Muscular Dystrophy Canada not only through fundraisers, but also in leadership roles. Fire fighters serve on the charity’s Board of Directors, where they help guide its national strategy, and contribute to advisory groups, bringing frontline experience and community insight. Fire fighters also lead locally, organizing events, building awareness and inspiring others to get involved, she said.
“The impact of fire fighters across Canada is something we never take for granted. Since 1954, they have been at the heart of our organization, helping to build and sustain Muscular Dystrophy Canada.”
Affiliates interested in fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy Canada can visit www.filltheboot.ca for information and to register their initiatives. Fire fighters interested in leadership roles within MDC are asked to contact the charity or visit its dedicated fire fighter page.
