The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and the Seattle Fire Department, in conjunction with more than 20 other fire departments in the area, kicked off the 55th annual Fill-the-Boot campaign today on the steps of City Hall.

Many Seattle Firefighters attended today’s kickoff event, including Seattle Fire Chief Gregory Dean, IAFF Local 27 President Kenny Stuart and the Seattle Firefighter Pipes and Drums Band. Seattle City Councilmember Bruce Harrell read a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Greg Nickels declaring July “Fill the Boot Month” in Seattle.

Starting Friday, July 10 Seattle Firefighters will be at various street corners around the City, asking motorists to drop donations into their boots. Last year, the Department contributed $56,000 to Western Washington’s overall total of $445,564. The goal this year is to raise more than $100,000 for the cause.

MDA is a volunteer health agency working to defeat more than 40 forms of Muscular Dystrophy and related diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education. MDA maintains clinics for area adults and children affected by neuromuscular diseases at Children’s Hospital Medical Center, and the University of Washington Medical Center.