The Valdosta Fire Department, along with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, will host a special event on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015 at 12 p.m., at VFD Station #1, to celebrate their 61-year partnership in raising money and awareness to benefit children and adults affected by muscle disease throughout the Valdosta area.
 
This event will also kick off the firefighters' annual “Fill the Boot” fundraising campaign that will take place from Thursday, Sept. 3, to Saturday, Sept. 5, from 3-7 p.m. each day, at the following locations:
 
·         Wal-Mart Supercenter at 340 Norman Drive
·         Wal-Mart Supercenter at 3274 Perimeter Road
·         Winn Dixie at 4036 Bemis Road
·         Winn Dixie at 1105 Madison Highway
·         Winn Dixie at 3200 North Ashley Street
              
“The Valdosta firefighters are proud to be partners with MDA in the fight against the life-threatening muscle disease,” said Valdosta Fire Chief Freddie Broome. “We hope our efforts will bring some relief—and eventually a cure—to people in our community who are affected by the disease.  Every dollar helps.”       
 
Funds raised through the 2015 “Fill the Boot Drive” will help support MDA's programs of research, specialized health care services, and day-to-day support for those struggling with the disease.  For more information about the VFD “Fill the Boot” Drive, call (229) 333-1835.