06/18/2026
Thousands of Scottish soccer fans showed their appreciation in a special way during the 2026 World Cup. Known as the Tartan Army, the supporters traveled to the United States to cheer on Scotland. However, many discovered that hotel prices near Gillette Stadium in Foxborough were far too expensive.
Instead of staying near the stadium, many fans chose to stay in Providence, Rhode Island. There, they received a warm welcome from local residents, city officials, police officers, firefighters, and members of the Providence Tartan Army, a local group that helped visitors find affordable places to stay.
The kindness shown by the city made a strong impression on the Scottish fans. After Scotland's 1-0 victory over Haiti on June 13, organizer David Hood announced that the supporters wanted to give something back to the community.
The fans raised nearly $30,000 for several good causes. They pledged $10,000 to the cancer unit at Hasbro Children's Hospital to help children receiving treatment. Another $10,000 was donated to a youth soccer program that supports underprivileged children in Rhode Island. In addition, $6,500 was given to Craig Ferguson, who had walked from Los Angeles to Boston to raise money for Scottish mental health services.
The donation checks were scheduled to be presented during the Tartan Army Downtown March and music festival at 195 District Park on June 18, 2026.
What began as a search for affordable accommodation turned into a story of friendship and gratitude. The Scottish fans not only supported their national team but also found a way to thank a city that welcomed them with open arms, leaving a positive impact on the local community.