TOWSON, MD – The annual “Fill the Boot” campaign to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Maryland kicks off this week, with support from County Executive Johnny Olszewski and the Baltimore County Fire Department.

The “Fill the Boot” campaign is sponsored by the Baltimore County Professional Fire Fighters Association, Local 1311. The firefighters’ union has conducted this charitable fundraiser for more than 30 years.

This year’s “Fill the Boot” campaign begins Thursday, August 29, and continues through Labor Day, September 2.

A kickoff event will be held Thursday, August 29, 11 a.m., at the Edgemere Fire Station #9, 6800 North Point Road (21219).

County Executive Johnny Olszewski is scheduled to attend, along with Fire Chief Joanne Rund; John Sibiga Jr., president of Local 1311; and MDA’s Stacy Alford.

Over the years, Baltimore County firefighters have helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to help MDA fight neuromuscular disease.

Last year, “Fill the Boot” raised $68,000 in Baltimore County. The campaign hopes to exceed that amount this year.

Expect to see firefighters collecting money in their boots at intersections and along roads throughout Baltimore County during the fund drive period.