Local Intersection Site of Annual 'Fill the Boot Campaign'

This week one of Manassas' busiest intersections will be the site of the annual 'Fill the Boot Campaign.'

Monday marked the beginning of the campaign for a good cause, an annual fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and the families it serves.

Like events all over the country, a "Raise the Boot" drive by local firefighters and rescue workers is greeting motorists at the intersection of Manassas Dr. and Centreville Rd (Rt 28) in Manassas Park. 

The largely volunteer effort raises money for the MDA through the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), a union that has contributed to the cause since the fundraising MDA telethon began in New York in 1954.

 Locally, the fundraising efforts represent coordination of IAFF Local 2757 of Manassas Park and Prince William County Local 2598. 

"Our goal is raise $20,000,"  David Freidman, a  firefighter/paramedic and union vice president, said during last year's event. "We anticipate exceeding it. This is our eleventh year of doing this together." 

Luitenant Josh Brandon also is a key figure in the drive for Prince William County.

"Many of the local families affected by MD see this money" Friedman said.  "And many of us come out on our own time to participate here." 

Generally, 4-6 rescue workers were on hand for MDA during the drive, which is expected to end this weekend.

The money raised is then given to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, which uses it to provide medical care and other support to children with the disease.

Editor's note: Larry Gibson and Jamie M. Rogers contributed to this report