ATLANTIC, IA – August 4, 2026 — Since 1954, fire fighters have united communities to collect critical funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) – one dollar at a time – through the Fill the Boot program. Fire fighters from Atlantic Fire Department will continue this tradition, supporting families living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases.
Dedicated fire fighters from Atlantic Fire and Rescue will take to the streets, storefronts, and other locations with boots in hand, asking pedestrians, motorists, and shoppers to help transform the lives of children and adults living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and other related neuromuscular diseases. The event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 10 am to 2 pm at Atlantic Fest.
Since 1954, fire fighters have raised more than $720 million for MDA, helping fund groundbreaking research and care. These contributions have fueled significant advancements in medical research, including the development of 30+ FDA-approved treatments for neuromuscular disease since 2015.
“Fire fighters have proudly supported the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s mission to help families live longer, stronger lives, and we are honored to continue this partnership,” said Tom Cappel, Fire Chief for Atlantic Fire and Rescue. Every dollar raised in our community helps fund life-changing research and care that makes a difference for families nationwide.”
In addition to Fill the Boot, fire fighters volunteer at MDA Summer Camp, providing children with neuromuscular diseases a week of fun and independence.
Community members are encouraged to visit fire fighters at Atlantic Fest or donate online at https://filltheboot.donordrive.com/teams/21484#donate to support this vital cause.
