St. Albert Firefighters are at it again this year, making the rooftop of Fire Station #2 on Boudreau Road their home for four days next week.
The rooftop campout is part of an annual fundraising campaign for muscular dystrophy – a group of genetic diseases characterized by the gradual weakening and wasting of muscle, for which there is no cure.
St. Albert firefighters will be collecting donations for Muscular Dystrophy Canada at several events around the city until Feb. 18.
The rooftop campaign kicked off this year at East Side Mario's Restaurant on Tuesday night, where firefighters served up dinner for restaurant patrons. All tips collected went directly to support the cause.
Last year the event raised more than $1,100.
"For a Tuesday night it was pretty busy and we were getting some pretty substantial tips," said Greg Harvey, spokesperson for St. Albert Fire Serves and one of the five firefighters who will be camping out next week.
"Everybody had a great time."
This year the campaign goal is $40,000 with money raised going towards improving the quality of life for people with neuromuscular disorders by purchasing mobility equipment, providing support services and funding research.
Last year the firefighters raised more than $47,000, blowing the $20,000 goal out of the water.
Harvey said he isn't surprised by the generosity of St. Albertans.
"This city is at the top when it comes to donations and supporting charity."
St. Albert firefighters have been actively involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada since 1971. No other group has done more for the organization throughout its 59-year history than firefighters – who last year alone raised $3 million.
Come by and say hi
"We welcome everyone to come by, we're always open for business," added Harvey. "But remember to bring your toques and gloves."
Environment Canada has predicted negative double-digit temperatures for Feb. 5 when firefighters ascend the rooftop. Wednesday's forecast is sunny with a high of -12 C and low of -23 C.
Harvey said the firefighters are busy finding heaters for their tents and piling on the warm clothes.
They will be starting their rooftop campout with opening ceremonies and a ribbon cutting on Feb. 5 at 9 a.m. Fire Station #2 is located at 100 Boudreau Road. The rooftop campout ends on Feb. 8 at 4 p.m.
If you won't be able to catch the firefighters on the rooftop, they will also be at the Inglewood Safeway this Saturday and Sunday collecting donations in their boots.
Firefighters will be at the grocery store from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. People can also enter to win a Valentine's basket.
St. Albert firefighters will also be holding an online silent auction at www.stalbertfirefighters.com. Items will also be on display at Fire Station #3 at 100 Giroux Road. To place a bid, email [email protected]. The auction ends Feb. 18 at 4 p.m.
Follow on Twitter
Follow the fourth Annual Muscular Dystrophy Rooftop Campaign on Twitter @saffu2130.
