New Hanover Fire Rescue hopes to raise $75,000 for MDA

MONKEY JUNCTION, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County firefighters were out collecting donations at several intersections for their annual Fill the Boot campaign Friday.

One-hundred percent of donations stay within the community and go toward the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), which helps fund research, support groups and summer camps for kids.

This fundraiser started eight years ago, and firefighters say the outpouring of support is amazing.

“The first year we started off we made $1,000, and that was fantastic,” Capt. Ben Bobzien said. “We were so excited to help out. Last year we raised $67,000, and we were the top booters in the state, which we are proud of, and hopefully we can do that again.”

Bobzien says they raised $16,000 yesterday. Their goal this year is to raise $75,000.

The campaign will continue Saturday, along with the three days following Thanksgiving.