Firefighters from the Gainesville Fire Department are preparing for the 27th annual “Give Burns the Boot” drive September 22, 23 and 24.
Proceeds from the yearly collection help the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation (GFBF) fulfill its mission to educate the public in burn awareness and prevention, support medical facilities in the care of burns in Georgia and assist burn survivors in their recovery.
"Without the support of our citizens each year, the Boot Drive would not be a success," Smith said. "The Gainesville Fire Department is proud to take part in the drive and we ask that you continue your support and give as generously as you can."
"Ten percent of our department’s total dollar amount raised is returned to the department for fire safety and burn education efforts. By supporting the Boot Drive, the public is also supporting their local fire department and their own community."
Money raised by the Gainesville Fire Department also goes to Camp Oo-U-La ®, Georgia’s only camp held exclusively for burn-injured children. Last year, the camp celebrated its 23rd anniversary and welcomed 70 campers. The campers experience an entire week where they get to feel like kids again, regardless of their physical features. The cost for both the campers and volunteers is covered entirely by the GFBF.
Gainesville firefighters will be on hand at several city storefronts collecting for the GFBF during the drive. Citizens may also drop off any donations at the headquarters station located at 725 Pine Street Gainesville, Ga. 30501. The GFBF is a 501 © (3) organization, making all donations tax-deductible.
