Galesburg Fire Department ranks #2 in state for Fill the Boot fundraiser
The Galesburg Fire Department (GFD) really came through for people with neuromuscular diseases at the annual Fill the Boot Campaign.
The department ranked second in Illinois for dollars collected in the 2024 Fill the Boot Campaign. Generous donors helped raise $31,157.11 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Galesburg placed second in the state of Illinois for the amount they raised.
'I am incredibly proud of the Fire Department for their selfless dedication to helping others, and deeply thankful for the community's continued support,' said Fire Chief Randy Hovind.
The annual Fill the Boot Campaign supports the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), which works to fight muscular dystrophy, ALS and related neuromuscular diseases. Funds raised through Fill the Boot directly support MDA's work, including research, comprehensive care and advocacy. MDA is the largest non-governmental source of funding for neuromuscular disease research, which has led to approved, life-changing therapies. MDA supports care centers at top health care institutions and gives thousands of kids and young adults the chance to attend MDA Summer Camp and other recreational programs at no cost to families.
The rankings for the most funds raised through the Fill the Boot Campaign are Chicago first, Galesburg second, and Orland Park, third. Galesburg was also in the top five earners within the IAFF 8th District, encompassing Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Michigan. The top five earners in the five-state region in order are Chicago; Cleveland; Kokomo, IN; Lafayette, IN; and Galesburg.
'This truly demonstrates what our community can achieve,' said Eric Hanson, City Manager. 'Thanks to the leadership of our Fire Department and the generosity of our residents, Galesburg was highly competitive both statewide and across the multi-state region.'
The Galesburg Fire Department participates in the Fill the Boot Campaign every year to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. They're already planning the 2025 campaign and residents can watch for opportunities to give in person on the Friday before, during and after Labor Day weekend or donate here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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