GADSDEN – The Gadsden Fire Department will collect donations Saturday, Sept. 5, at the entrance to Gadsden Mall. The department is partnering with Gadsden Professional Firefighters Association Local 454 for the annual MDA Fill the Boot campaign.

Donations support the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Fill the Boot program. The program helps children and adults living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases.

MDA uses campaign proceeds to advance research, care, advocacy, and support for families. Organizers say every donation, regardless of size, can make a difference.

Gadsden firefighters and Local 454 have supported the campaign for many years. They describe Fill the Boot as a long-standing tradition and a cause that remains close to their hearts.

During the 2025 Fill the Boot drive, Gadsden firefighters raised $10,300, excluding coins donated at intersections across the city. Their local fundraising for MDA has exceeded $350,000 over the years.

Residents are invited to visit the Gadsden Mall entrance Saturday and help firefighters fill the boot.