Every year, many fire departments come together and coordinate a boot drive to benefit the Southeastern Firefighters' Burn Foundation. Last year, for two weekends in May, Martinez-Columbia Fire Rescue held a boot drive for the Foundation at 12 different locations throughout Columbia County. From taking over the intersection in Mullins Crossing to collecting donations from lake goers at Clarks Hill, Martinez-Columbia Fire Rescue raised $40,000 for the Burn Foundation. Over 110 fire personnel were involved in the boot drive which was well received by the Columbia County citizens.
Boot drives raise so much awareness for the Burn Foundation and it also gives the fire departments the opportunity to interact with the citizens they are protecting on a daily basis. Every year, fire department fundraising accounts for 43% of the Burn Foundation's income. It is apparent that firefighters have a passion for the Burn Foundation's mission and their efforts are very much appreciated. On behalf of all of the patients and families that the Burn Foundation supports, a huge thanks to Martinez-Columbia Fire Rescue for all of their hard work and dedication through the 2010 Boot Drive! A special thanks to Chief Cooper, Chief Champion, and Jeremy Wallen for coordinating the 2010 Boot Drive.
The 2011 Martinez-Columbia Fire Rescue Boot Drive is scheduled for May 13-15 and 20-23.