Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Q: What is Fill The Boot? 
    2. A: Fill The Boot, also known as Boot Drives, Boot Tolls and Toll Gates, is the most common and successful fundraising activity Fire Fighters do in support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC) and the thousands of people affected by neuromuscular disorders. Fill The Boot events involve Fire Fighters getting out in their local communities, and asking community members to “fill their fire boots” by voluntarily making a donation, at events such as rooftop campouts, ladder sits, stair climbs, truck pulls, car washes, sporting events and much more!
  2. Q: Why should I donate to Fill The Boot online? 
    3. A: An online donation option is offered to allow people who can’t attend their local Fire Fighter event to still show their support. Filltheboot.ca is a safe and user-friendly way to support the efforts of your local Fire Fighters and help make a meaningful impact on Canadians affected by neuromuscular disorders. Complete your online donation today!
  3. Q: Why do Fire Fighters support MDC? 
    4. A: In 1954, the founder of MDC, Dr. David Green wanted to raise money to help fund research for his son and other clients affected by neuromuscular disorders. He contacted the Toronto Fire Fighters to ask for help and a tradition began. Since 1954, Fire Fighters have been MDC’s largest network of supporters. Fire Fighters have dedicated themselves to the mantra of “until there’s a cure, there’s us”. Learn more about MDC’s history with Fire Fighters by visiting our About page.
  4. Q: What events do Fire Fighters host to support MDC? 
    5. A: Each year, career and volunteer Fire Fighters give their time and help #FillTheBoot by organizing various events like boot drives, rooftop campouts, ladder sits, stair climbs, truck pulls, car washes, sporting events and raffles in support of Canadians affected by neuromuscular disorders. Visit muscle.ca to learn more about how you can help.
  5. Q: Where does the money go? 
    6. A: Funds raised by Fire Fighters are used to provide programs and services, like equipment funding, as well as to move neuromuscular research forward and create positive change through advocacy efforts. For more information on the impacts that Fill The Boot events have made to date, check out our annual reports from past years.
  6. Q: Will I get a tax receipt? 
    7. A: All donations made online through FillTheBoot.ca automatically receive an electronic tax receipt by email.
  7. Q: Do I have to be a Fire Fighter to join a ‘team’? 
    8. A: If you are a friend, family or community member who wants to join an existing department/association team or group, you are welcomed to do so! All support is greatly appreciated. Search for existing “teams” on the main registration page.
  8. Q: I’m a Fire Fighter who would like to get involved in ways other than Fill The Boot. Can I do that? 
    9. A: Yes. There are plenty of ways to get involved and support MDC. Through Fill The Boot, you can get creative and organize any type of fundraiser you like. Car washes, rooftop campouts and boot drives are just a few examples of how you can make a difference. MDC’s annual High-Rise Challenge is another great way to get involved. This endurance fundraiser will test you physically, and push you to your limits to see who can climb to the top of La Cité de l’énergie in Shawinigan, Quebec in the least amount of time. Visit the event page on muscle.ca for more information or to register. Lastly, the Walk & Roll for MDC is MDC’s signature event, held each year in communities across the country. For more information, or to register as an individual or team visit WalkRollMDC.ca.
  9. Q: I would like more information on Fill The Boot or need help getting registered. 
    10. A: For more information on Fill The Boot or for support with FillTheBoot.ca, please call 1-800-567-2873 or email FillTheBoot@muscle.ca to connect with an MDC staff member directly.