Carlsbad Firefighters Taking to the Streets Tuesday to Help Burn Victims

What began more than a decade ago as a grassroots effort backed by the fire service, the Burn Institute’s countywide Boot Drive has become a hallmark fundraiser for the organization, raising nearly $230,000 for Burn Institute programs and services in 2012.

Each year, hundreds of uniformed firefighters from fire departments all over San Diego County come together for a common goal, hopping aboard their engines to meet at intersections within their communities to collect donations in their boots during the morning and evening commutes. And each year passing motorists help to fill those boots with their spare change -- ones, fives, twenties – even $100 bills. No matter the economy or weather, San Diegans have always given generously. This year, dedicated firefighters from 44 departments will hit the streets at over 100 intersections around the county.

Help Carlsbad Firefighters Fill the Boot Tuesday morning at Paseo Del Norte and Palomar Airport Road.

Proceeds benefit Burn Institute fire and burn prevention education programs and burn survivor support programs such as Camp Beyond the Scars for burn-injured children, 5-17 years. Celebrating its 27th season, the Burn Institute’s unique camp program has provided a safe place for many hundreds of young burn survivors to share their experiences in a supportive camp environment.