Firefighters "Fill The Boot" for MDA

will be out on Route 50 in full force next month as they “Fill The Boot” to help fight muscular dystrophy.

The annual fundraising drive that solicits money from motorists raised $4,916 last year for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the firefighters hope for an even better result when they do it again on Aug. 27.

Chief Mark Lewis and four other firefighters made the announcement at Wednesday night’s Collier Township meeting with the help of a very special guest.

Kendle Haught, who has muscular dystrophy, has been the department’s honorary spokesperson while the firefighters have collected money for MDA the past few years. The 9-year-old from Washington, Pa., spoke briefly about her appreciation for their work to raise money.

“I want to thank the firefighters for helping MDA,” she said.

Her mother, Kristy, said she is amazed how much money the department is able to raise while running to cars on Route 50 in sweltering heat.

“I know there were a lot of hot days and we appreciate their help,” Kristy Haught said.

Before the meeting, Kendle hung out with and played with some of the tools on the truck, Lewis said.

“She’s like an honorary member,” Lewis said. “Kendle always pays us back by presenting the check (to MDA).”

At least 30 members of the fire department are expected to be out in front of Collier Town Square, and other main intersections on Aug. 27. Lewis said they are somewhat concerned about how reconstruction of the roadway will affect the fundraiser effort, but they will find ways to work around any problems.