by Oliver Gilpin | Mar 12, 2025

Operation Sock Drop Returns for 2025 at the Free Jacks Home Opener and St. Patrick’s Day Festival

The New England Free Jacks are proud to announce the return of Operation Sock Drop, our annual community-driven charitable drive supporting individuals and families facing homelessness. In partnership with Friends of Boston’s Homeless and Father Bill’s & MainSpring Yawkey Housing Resource Center, we’re calling on Free Jacks fans to help make an impact!

How to Participate

At our 2025 Home Opener on March 15—as the Free Jacks take on NOLA Gold at Veterans Memorial Stadium—fans can donate new, unused and unopened socks upon entry. Every donation will enter you into a raffle for a signed Free Jacks jersey!

** Please write your name and contact information on the packaging with sharpy before donating the socks!

Why Socks Matter

Socks are the #1 most requested item in shelters across the country. By donating, you’re helping those in need stay warm and comfortable. Last year, Free Jacks fans contributed 1,654 pairs of socks—this year, we aim to top that number and provide even more support to our community!

Benefiting Organizations

Father Bill’s & MainSpring operates the Yawkey Housing Resource Center in Quincy, offering critical housing support and services to those in need.
Friends of Boston’s Homeless has been bridging the gap for individuals experiencing homelessness since 1987, providing essential services and pathways to permanent housing.

The Best-Kept Secret of Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Just Got Even Bigger!

Make a day of it! The Free Jacks St. Patrick’s Day Festival is packed with Irish heritage, live music, craft beer, and, of course, world-class rugby. Here’s what to expect:

Festival Schedule – Saturday, March 15, 2025

10:00 AM 🎟️ Gates Open
DROP YOUR DONATIONS 🧦
10:00 AM 🏉 Heritage Cup – Local club rugby showdown
12:00 PM 🍺 Bars & Fan Zone Open
12:00 PM 🍺 Stout Fest – Sample the best local stouts
12:00 PM ♨️ Hot Smoke BBQ
12:30 PM 🎻 Live music by Zack Bolles Bandlays
2:00 PM 🏉 Free Jacks vs. NOLA Gold

Operation Sock Drop 2025 – FAQ

What can I donate?
Fans can donate new, unused socks in their original packaging. We welcome all sizes and brands for men, women, and children.

Do they have to be Free Jacks socks?
Nope! Any brand and size are welcome, as long as they are new and unworn.

How do I enter the signed jersey raffle?
Each pair of socks donated earns you one entry into the raffle. The more you donate, the more chances you have to win!

Where do I drop off my socks?
Donation bins will be located at the stadium entrance. Our staff will collect your socks and record your donation for the raffle.

When will the winner be announced?
The raffle winner will be announced before the end of the Free Jacks Festival.

Let’s Make a Difference!

Join us on March 15 to cheer on the Free Jacks, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and give back to our community. Together, we can make this year’s Operation Sock Drop the biggest one yet!