Firefighters trading boots for donations
Published 6:00 am Friday, May 12, 2017
- Zahra Montgomery, 4, places a dollar in a boot during the 2015 Give Burns the Boot drive hosted by LaGrange firefighters outside Walmart on New Franklin Road. (Photo: File)
By Melanie Ruberti
Melanie.ruberti@lagrangenews.com
LaGrange firefighters will soon use an essential part of their gear to raise money for a good cause.
The LaGrange Fire Department will join nearly 100 other fire departments throughout Georgia in the 28th annual “Give Burns the Boot” drive.
The fundraiser benefits the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation.
The non-profit organization provides fire safety and prevention education, supports medical facilities and assists burn survivors in their recovery.
Proceeds from the annual boot drive also help children with burn injuries attend “Camp Oo-U- La.”
The camp, paid for entirely by GFBF funds, allows campers one week in the year in which they can live without society’s cruel comments and stares and just be kids, officials stated.
“The Burn Foundation is grateful to all of the citizens and firefighters that support this campaign. Our work would not be possible without them,” said GFBF Executive Director, Dennis Gardin.
“Without the support of our citizens each year, the Boot Drive would not be a success,” added LFD Lt. Chris Taylor. “The LaGrange Fire Department is proud to take part in the drive and we ask that you continue your support and give as much as you can during this special event
The 28th annual “Give Burns the Boot” drive will take place on Thursday, May 25 through Saturday, May 27 at Kroger off Commerce Avenue and the Walmart Marketplace on Lafayette Parkway.
LFD firefighters will be collecting donations at each location every day beginning at noon until 6 p.m.
Melanie Ruberti is a reporter with LaGrange Daily News. She can be reached at 706-884-7311, ext. 2156.
