PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — As you drive through the streets of Philadelphia in these last few weeks of summer, you may see firefighters out in the middle of the road, asking for donations for muscular dystrophy through the annual "Fill The Boot" campaign.
"This is the 57th year of 'Fill The Boot,'" Philadelphia Fire Department Battalion Chief Tom Kane, a trustee of IAFF Local 22, said.
"It's the Muscular Dystrophy Association, pairing with the International Association of Fire Fighters nationwide, to collect money to help fight muscular dystrophy. Since 1999 in Philadelphia alone, we have raised $3.3 million."
Kane said it's important to mention that all the money raised stays local.
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"Some of the money goes to a camp that they have every year. 60 children every year, ages eight to 17, will attend a summer camp at no cost to their families."
Chief Kane said while there is no cure, there are many advancements in the fight against muscular dystrophy, and 12 new drugs to treat it have been approved.
He reminded drivers to be mindful of firefighters' safety as they ask for donations in local streets.
"Be extra careful and drive slowly when you see the firefighters," said Kane.
"Number one, safety is a priority, but number two is it's easier to donate when you are driving slowly. It's easier to stop and put that money in a boot for a worthy cause."
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