Firefighters to Raise Money for Muscular Dystrophy

Columbia firefighters will fill their rubber boots with donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association of the Midlands this week. 

The Columbia-Richland Fire Department's Boot Drive is scheduled for Wednesday through Friday. Firefighters will collect money at intersections around Columbia.

“This Boot Drive is the single largest fundraising event for MDA of the Midlands," said Tara Heil, execute director of the association. "We are proud to partner with the Columbia-Richland Fire Department each year and appreciate the help and hope they provide to local families served by our district office.”

The fire department was honored last week for raising the most money in the Southeast for the 2011 MDA Boot Drive. Firefighters collected more than $127,000, said Chief Aubrey Jenkins. 

"With the communities assistance we can 'fill the boot' and surpass last years total, so when you see a firefighter please make a donation,” Jenkins said.

The fire department has been partnering with the MDA for 50 years. The partnership grew in the 90s when firefighters were allowed to collect at intersections while on duty. 

At that time, the department was inspired by the grandson of retired Battalion Chief Taylor McEntire who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy.

During the past 13 years, the department has raised $2.3 million for the MDA. 

The Muscular Dystrophy Association fights neuromuscular diseases through research, medical and support services, and health education. 

Firefighters will be collecting donations at these intersections between 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday:

• Two Notch Road and Decker Boulevard
• Sparkleberry Lane and Two Notch Road
• Wilson Boulevard/Highway 21 and Blythewood Road
• Pineview Road and Garners Ferry Road
• Kennerly Road and Broad River Road
• Trenholm Road and Forest Drive
• Rabon Rd and Farrow Road
• North Springs Road and Clemson Road
• Assembly Street and Gervais Street
• Huger Street and Blossoms Street
• Devine Street and Harden Street
• Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue
• Farrow Road and Beltline Boulevard
• Main Street and Sunset Boulevard
• Bush River Road and Broad River Road
• South Beltline Boulevard and Rosewood Drive
• Leesburg Road and Garners Ferry Road