UPFFA Holds Press Conference to Announce 2010 Statewide Goal and Kick Off Annual Fill-the-Boot Campaign for MDA

West Hartford, Conn., June 15, 2010- On Tuesday, June 15, 2010 the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Association of Conn. (UPFFA) in conjunction with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), held a Fill-the-Boot kick-off press conference at the West Hartford Local 1241 Fire Headquarters Engine Company 2 in West Hartford, Conn., to demonstrate their ongoing commitment to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and the fight against neuromuscular disease in the state of Conn.

The press conference was conducted by the president of the UPFFA, Peter Carozza, Jr., and hosted by West Hartford Local 1241. Other locals in attendance included the New Haven Local 825, Waterbury Local 1339, New Britain Local 992, Guilford Local 4177 and Bridgeport Local 834.

Local Goodwill Ambassador, 4-year-old T.J. McClean, made an appearance at the event. T.J. had the opportunity to meet the fire fighters and receive a tour of the West Hartford Fire House.

Each year Conn. fire fighters of the IAFF raise funds for MDA in many ways, including their trademark Fill-the-Boot program. Last year, the IAFF fire fighters in Conn. raised $483,000 for MDA. This year, Conn. locals have set a goal to raise $558,000 for MDA. “We are making a special appeal to every citizen in our state to donate at least $1 and this $1 will help us reach our goal,” said Peter Carozza, president of the UPFFA, “Help us help the kids of our state.”

The IAFF is the largest national sponsor of the MDA. In 2009, fire fighters across the country collectively raised over $28,000,000 to support the fight against neuromuscular disease. 2010 marks the 56th year that the IAFF has proudly dedicated their time and efforts to MDA. Contributions to local MDA summer camps, professional and public education, and the fill-the-boot drives demonstrate the commitment and loyalty of local fire fighters to “Jerry’s kids.”

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

For more information on this event please contact Brooke Eder at beder@mdausa.org or (203) 288-3500.