Firefighters Union Runs Fundraiser on Friday

When Wilmington residents pick up their morning breakfast on Friday, they'll also have the chance to raise money for a worthy cause.

The Wilmington Firefighters Union will be collecting money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association on Friday from 6-11 a.m. at  and most  throughout town.

In 1952, the relationship between the International Association of Firefighters and the Muscular Dystrophy Association began in Massachusetts when 25 members went door-to-door and raised $5,000. 

One year later, the men involved with the previous year's fundraiser went to the IAFF national convention and adopted MDA as the group's charity of choice.

Wilmington Firefighters Union member Erik Nansel said in addition to Friday's fundraiser, the group is also attempting to organize another boot drive before Thanksgiving at Market Basket in addition to other possible events.

During the Fourth of July festivities, the union put a boot out in front of the firehouse and raised more than $300 in just two nights.

"Firefighters are very caring and dedicated individuals," said Nansel. "We are truely dedicated to the cause of finding a cure to muscular dystrophy and helping those individuals afflicted with this devistating disease. That's why we work so hard every year to improve our contributions."