‘Giving back to our community’: Winnipeg firefighters camping out for a good cause

CTV’s Ainsley McPhail learns about the annual campout for muscular dystrophy.

A group of Winnipeg firefighters is raising money and awareness for those living with muscular dystrophy through an annual event that sees them camping outside no matter the weather.

Wednesday marks the second day of the 2025 Rooftop Campout, which sees firefighters camping on the roof of #4 Station in Osborne Village.

The goal of the event is to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy Canada – a non-profit organization that provides programs, research and advocacy to help those impacted by neuromuscular disorders.

According to firefighter Brad Enders, the event got off to a good start on Tuesday, raising nearly $12,000. This year’s goal is to get to $55,000.

“We thank all of Winnipeg for helping us get to that already,” he said in an interview with CTV Morning Live on Wednesday.

“We have a fundraising goal of $55,000 this year, and we’re hoping we can get to that very soon.”

For those who want to get involved, firefighters are collecting donations on Osborne Street and selling t-shirts out of the fire hall. You can also donate online at filltheboot.ca.

“As firefighters, we love to help people. We like to be engaged in our community,” Enders said.

“We’re giving back to our community by doing this, and we love helping people with muscular dystrophy.”

The rooftop campout runs from April 8 to 10.

• With files from CTV’s Ainsley McPhail.