IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Murrieta—Normally it’s the public that calls on firefighters for help and residents rest easy knowing their local fire department is there for them, always ready to serve.  This time, however firefighters are asking for the public’s help, as the Murrieta Fire Department partners with the Muscular Dystrophy Association in support of “Jerry’s Kids.”   Since 1954 firefighters nationwide have donated nearly $275 million to the MDA and as a group are the largest national sponsors of the MDA. 

Firefighters and paramedics pledge to save lives, and by partnering with the MDA they support worldwide efforts to eradicate 40 different neuromuscular diseases.  Their contributions also go towards MDA’s summer camps for children, professional and public health education and other programs. 

Last year Murrieta firefighters collected $20,000 during their ‘Fill The Boot’ campaign, with local firefighters appearing this past September on the annual Labor Day Telethon to personally deliver their check to the MDA.  Their goal in 2008 is $25,000.  Captain Richard Martinez, coordinator of the 2008 campaign knows that may be hard to reach given the current economic conditions.  “Everyone is hurting right now financially,” Martinez said.  “But “Jerry’s Kids” hurt every day.  There are over 100,000 people in Murrieta, and if everyone just gave 25 cents, we’d reach our goal.  Who wouldn’t help “Jerry’s Kids” for a quarter?”

Jerry Lewis, MDA National Chairman, appreciates the efforts of firefighters.  “Fire fighters are my heroes. They have given selflessly of their time and resources to help MDA, and it never ceases to gratify me that so many of you care so much about “my kids.” 

Firefighters from the Murrieta Fire Department will be at the entrance to Sam’s Club at Murrieta Hot Springs Road and Alta Murrieta Road on Thursday, December 4^th and at the entrance to Albertson’s on California Oaks Road on Friday, December 5^th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. both days.  They encourage the community to stop by and ‘Fill Their Boots’ in support of “Jerry’s Kids.”