Waltham residents urged to help ‘Fill the Boot’ for MDA

Firefighters will be out on the streets of Waltham asking motorists to help "Fill the Boot" for the Muscular Dystrophy Association on June 21.

Every dollar passing motorists can pitch into the firefighters boots helps Local 866 firefighters provide medical treatment and support services to people and their families living with neuromuscular diseases in the Waltham area.

The International Association of Fire Fighters has been a national MDA partner for more than 50 years and remains committed to the fight to end neuromuscular diseases, according to the organization.

"Firefighters are American heroes who make such a difference for the people and families we serve," said MDA Area Director Vanessa Malfitano. "The funds they raise are used for health care services and equipment support, and to help send kids to free MDA summer camps. We are grateful for everything they do."

Fill the Boot funds also are used to support some of the 300 worldwide research projects seeking better treatments and cures for the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases covered by MDA, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy and ALS.

"We know the money we raise definitely makes a difference in the lives of people affected by neuromuscular diseases, and that it helps them get the care they need," said Lt. Michael Quinn Jr. "Fill the Boot is a proud tradition for us, and its a great way for firefighters to be out in the community reminding residents that we are here, always ready to help."

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Waltham residents urged to help ‘Fill the Boot’ for MDA