Modesto firefighters are preparing for their annual "Fill the Boot" fundraising drive to support burn survivors. The event will take place on May 9 and 10, 2026, at the intersection of McHenry Avenue and Sylvan Avenue in Modesto, California.
Members of the Modesto Fire Department, in partnership with the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, will be stationed at the intersection during peak traffic hours to collect donations from passing motorists. All proceeds go directly to the burn foundation, which provides support services, prevention education, and camp programs for burn survivors and their families.
"Every dollar raised stays local to help burn survivors in our community," said a department spokesperson. The Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation has been serving California burn survivors for over 50 years, offering programs like Camp Beyond the Scars and school-based fire safety education.
Donors can also contribute online through the foundation's website if they cannot attend the in-person event. The Modesto Fire Department encourages residents to bring cash or checks to support the cause.
